How is ultrasound used in ophthalmology?

Ultrasound is used in ophthalmology to diagnose and monitor eye conditions, such as retinal detachment.

Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the eye. In ophthalmology, ultrasound is primarily used to diagnose and monitor conditions that affect the posterior segment of the eye, such as retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, and intraocular tumors.

One type of ultrasound used in ophthalmology is B-scan ultrasound. This technique involves placing a small probe on the eyelid or directly on the eye, which emits sound waves that bounce off the internal structures of the eye. The reflected sound waves are then used to create a two-dimensional image of the eye, which can be used to identify abnormalities.

Another type of ultrasound used in ophthalmology is A-scan ultrasound. This technique is used to measure the length of the eye, which is important for determining the correct power of an intraocular lens implant for cataract surgery.

Ultrasound is a safe and effective tool for diagnosing and monitoring eye conditions. However, it is important to note that ultrasound cannot be used to image the anterior segment of the eye, such as the cornea and iris. In these cases, other imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or slit-lamp biomicroscopy, may be used instead.