A retinography is a complementary diagnostic test that allows the photographic recording of the ocular fundus, making it possible to observe in some detail the various structures of the retina, the optic nerve and the blood vessels.
One of the steps in an ophthalmology consultation is the observation of the ocular fundus. Retinography allows this to be done quickly and accurately, and in a more comfortable way for the patient. The record allows an easier comparative study over time of any pathology, with the additional advantage that it can be observed by another doctor.
The retinography is a much requested exam and is usually performed in support to the consultation, as it is a quick exam (5 to 10 minutes), painless and non-invasive, since the device does not come into contact with the eye. Sometimes it may be necessary to use drops to dilate the pupil in order to obtain a better quality image and photograph the different quadrants of the retina. When it is necessary to dilate the pupil, which rarely happens, the vision is blurred close up and there is difficulty in facing strong luminosity for some hours.
The retinograph is a device which corresponds to a low power microscope associated to a photographic camera to obtain retinal photographs with the aid of a flash. The quality of the photograph may vary according to the integrity and transparency of the optical media of the eye.
The evolution of retinographs has made it possible to obtain better quality images, without the need for pupil dilation, with a significant increase of the retinal field, covering the most central area of the retina and the periphery. Digital photography has allowed greater ease, and given that the images are stored on the computer, it is possible to observe and analyse the images immediately after their acquisition.