Specialized Testing

Retinal imaging
Visual field testing
Genetic testing
Pre-screening tests

Retinal Images

Retinal imaging allows us to capture a digital image of the structures at the back of the eye, including the optic nerve, blood vessels, macula and retina. These images are stored electronically and can be used for comparison at future visits, allowing us to monitor your eye health over time.

Using retinal imaging, subtle changes in these structures that may not be visible with conventional methods can be easily and immediately visualized during your exam. This helps in the early detection and management of diseases that can affect your eyes and overall health. Some of the conditions we can monitor with retinal imaging include diabetes, hypertension and macular degeneration. Early detection of changes is important, because early intervention can reduce the severity or delay the progression of these diseases. In some cases, we may be able to initiate treatment in the office, or can refer you immediately to a specialist, if required.

Retinal imaging is recommended biennually but may be recommended annually, depending on your overall eye health. Because retinal imaging is currently not covered by OHIP, the additional fee will be discussed with you before your exam.

Visual Field

Visual field tests are a subjective measure of your eyesight in all areas including central and side (peripheral) vision. At our clinic, we use sophisticated equipment to analyze the sensitivity of the field of vision. Slight changes in the visual field are often not noticed by patients until their condition progresses to an advanced stage. Some conditions which can cause a reduction in the sensitivity of your vision include Glaucoma, stroke, retinitis pigmentosa, retinal detachment, optic nerve damage, vascular disease, head trauma (including concussions), and brain tumours.

Visual field testing may or may not be covered by OHIP. In the event that it is not, any additional fee will be discussed with you before the test is done.

Genetic Testing

Our clinic offers two types of genetic testing, Vita Risk and Macula Risk:

• Vita Risk is a test is designed to aid in selecting the right type of supplement for a patient diagnosed with moderate dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
• Macula Risk is a test to determine the patient’s risk of progression to advanced AMD based on their individual genetic risk profile and to aid in the selection of appropriate eye supplements.

According to statistics published by the Canadian Association of Optometrists, AMD affects an estimated one million Canadians and is the leading cause of severe vision loss in the developed world. Currently, most patients diagnosed with AMD are prescribed vitamin supplements derived from the formulation used in the 2001 Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). But recent analysis of that data has shown that 49% of the patients involved would have benefited from a different supplement formulation.

By offering these tests in our clinic, we’re able to work with your primary care physician to develop targeted vitamin therapy on a patient-by-patient basis.

Pre-Testing Equipment

Prior to seeing the optometrist for your eye exam, our technician will carry out several pre-screening tests using automatic equipment to take a few measurements from each eye. These include measuring pressure in the eye (using a puff of air), and identifying refractive error. (Eyeglasses and contacts are prescribed to correct refractive error.) These tests are painless and allow us to collect important information so that we can provide a comprehensive eye exam.