Procedures & Services > Diagnostic Testing > Ultrasound

Our office uses standardized A-Scan and B-Scan to perform ultrasound measurements of the retina and optic nerve. These measurements are used as a supplement to the examination performed by Dr. Radtke. In some cases, the view of the retina is blocked by the presence of blood or opacities in the vitreous. The ultrasound is used in these cases to examine the retina for possible complications of retinal diseases. These complications can include retinal detachment, macular pucker, vitreous hemorrhage, or optic nerve drusen. Ultrasound can be used to detect the presence of and measure the size of intraocular tumors such as melanomas. A-Scan ultrasound is also performed to measure the size of a patient's optic nerve for signs of inflammation. Additionally, in the case of trauma, ultrasound can be used to evaluate any damage to ocular structures and to locate a foreign body inside the eye.

Ultrasound is performed by a technician in the office. The patient will be given a topical anesthetic drop to decrease sensation in the front of the eye. A technician will place a probe against the eye and move the probe to various positions to obtain the needed measurements. After the ultrasound, Dr. Radtke will review the measurements and inform the patient of the results.