Understanding Optical Coherence Tomography: A Window into the Human Body
In the ever-evolving world of medical technology, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) stands out as a remarkable tool that has transformed the way clinicians view the human body. Often described as an “optical ultrasound,” OCT allows healthcare professionals to see beneath the surface of tissues without making any incisions, providing a level of detail that was previously impossible with traditional imaging techniques.
At its core, OCT is a non-invasive imaging method that uses light waves to capture high-resolution cross-sectional images of tissues. While it is most widely known for its role in ophthalmology, where it helps detect and monitor conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, its applications are steadily expanding into cardiology, dermatology, and even dentistry. The precision and clarity of OCT images enable doctors to detect abnormalities at an early stage, often before symptoms even appear.
One of…