Why is this procedure done?
A slit-lamp is a special tool that lets the doctor see inside and outside the eye. It makes small parts of the eye look bigger so any problems can been seen. A bright light shines as the doctor looks at the eye. This test is a part of a routine eye exam. Your doctor will look for any new problems on the inside and outside of your eye. The doctor will follow any problems that you may already have. ‚
What will the results be?
Slit lamp exam will give the doctor a clear view of the eyes. This will help the doctor decide what treatment is best if there is a problem. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history and look at the outer parts of your eyes. Talk to the doctor about:
- Eye problems like drainage, pain, itching, or decreased eyesight
- Any allergies you have to eye drops or ointment
- Questions you have about your eyes or the test
- You will need to remove contact lenses or glasses before the exam.
- The doctor may use an eye drop to make the pupils larger. This will make it easier to see the back of the eye. This will take 10 to 15 minutes to work.
You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home. ‚
What happens during the procedure?
- You will be awake and sitting in a special chair. The room lights will be low. The doctor will ask you to lean forward and rest your chin and forehead on the special lamp.
- You will look forward into the light and try not to blink. The doctor will shine the light onto your eyes, one at a time. The doctor may move the lamp around to get a better view of your eye while looking at the parts of your eye. The doctor may move parts of the device to have a better view of the eye.
- Sometimes, the doctor may use an eye drop to color the outside of your eye for a few minutes. This will help the doctor see it better.
- The test is then done on the other eye.
- The exam takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- Your eyesight may be blurry. Light may seem extra bright. This will continue until the eye drops wear off. Bring sunglasses to wear home.
- Tears will wash away any of the color put on the eye.
- The doctor will talk about how the eyes looked and if there are any problems.
What care is needed at home?
- Do not wear your contact lenses for at least 2 hours after the exam.
- Always wash your hands before touching the eyes.
What follow-up care is needed?
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. Your doctor will let you know if you need more tests or to see an eye specialist.
- If the exam is normal, plan for another routine visit in 1 year.
What problems could happen?
- A scratch on the eye
- Allergic reaction
- Eye pain
Where can I learn more?
American Optometric Association ‚
http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/comprehensive-eye-and-vision-examination ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚