What is OCT Angiography (OCTA)?

Non-Invasive Retinal Blood Flow Imaging Explained

Overview

OCT angiography (OCTA) is an advanced imaging technique that allows clinicians to visualize blood flow in the retina and choroid without the need for dye injection.

Unlike traditional angiography, OCTA uses motion contrast from repeated OCT scans to map vascular structures in detail.


How OCT Angiography Works

OCTA captures multiple OCT scans at the same location and detects changes caused by moving blood cells.

This allows the system to:

Result: high-resolution imaging of retinal and choroidal vasculature


OCTA vs Traditional Angiography

FeatureOCT Angiography (OCTA)Fluorescein Angiography (FA)
Dye RequiredNoYes
InvasivenessNon-invasiveInvasive
Imaging SpeedFastSlower
Depth ResolutionLayer-by-layerLimited
Leakage DetectionLimitedStrong

Clinical Applications

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)


Diabetic Retinopathy


Retinal Vascular Disorders


Glaucoma (Emerging Use)


Which OCT Systems Include OCTA

Topcon Triton OCT


ZEISS Cirrus OCT


Many modern OCT systems now include OCTA, but availability depends on configuration and model.


Benefits of OCT Angiography


Limitations of OCTA


FAQ

What is OCT angiography?
OCT angiography is a non-invasive imaging technique that visualizes blood flow in the retina using optical coherence tomography.

Is OCTA better than fluorescein angiography?
OCTA is safer and faster, but fluorescein angiography is still better for detecting leakage.

What diseases can OCTA detect?
OCTA is used for conditions like AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vascular disorders.

Do all OCT machines have OCTA?
No, OCTA is available on specific models such as Topcon Triton and ZEISS Cirrus AngioPlex systems.


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