The Heidelberg Retinal Tomograph (HRT-II)

Glaucoma Diagnosis Advances With The Heidelberg Retinal Tomograph (HRT-II)

Our practice is proud to announce that we obtained a new, state-of-the-art computerized laser scanning device specifically designed to aid in the diagnosis of glaucoma.

The Heidelberg retinal tomograph, or HRT-II, uses laser technology to "scan" the optic nerve in the back of your eye much like a CT scan used to image the brain. The computer then analyzes the structure of the optic nerve in many dimensions and statistically compares the results with hundreds of thousands of data from "normal" values in the same age population. This data is then saved in the computer and when we scan the optic nerve again in the future, it will tell us if there has been any structural change or damage to the nerve that we could not normally see with current techniques. This new technology will enable us to detect glaucoma much earlier than traditional methods.

Who should have the HRT-II test done? Anyone who is a suspect for glaucoma including:

• Having a family history
• High Intra-ocular pressures
• Suspicious looking optic nerves as determined by your doctor
• African-American race
• Highly nearsighted
• History of Diabetes Mellitus

Most importantly, since glaucoma is a medical condition, this test is covered under medical insurance. If you have an HMO medical plan then a referral from your primary care physician is required to do the test. Even if you are not at risk for glaucoma, we would be happy to show you this fascinating technology!