The examination of patients with diabetic retinopathy is a specialized ophthalmological assessment designed to detect and monitor damage to the retina caused by diabetes. This examination is crucial for preventing serious complications and preserving vision for people with diabetes.

Vision acuity test: Your vision will be tested using standard letter charts to assess the level of vision impairment. Pupil dilation: Eye drops will be administered to dilate the pupils, allowing the ophthalmologist a better view of the back of the eye. Biomicroscopy (slit-lamp examination): The ophthalmologist will examine the front part of the eye as well as the retina, using specialized indirect lenses to view the back of the eye to identify changes characteristic of diabetic retinopathy, such as microaneurysms, hemorrhages, swelling, or new blood vessels. Optical coherence tomography (OCT): This non-invasive test creates detailed, high-resolution images of the retina, enabling precise assessment of the retina’s thickness and structure, as well as identifying any edema (swelling). Fluorescein angiography: In some cases, this specialized technique may be required, where a contrast dye is injected into a vein, allowing a detailed view of the retinal blood vessels and identifying any leakage or new abnormal vessels.

Examination of patients with diabetic retinopathy is painless and takes about 30-60 minutes. Based on the results, the ophthalmologist will give you recommendations for further treatment or follow-up. This may include changes in diabetes therapy, laser treatments, eye injections or surgery, if necessary. Regular examinations are essential for early detection of changes and prevention of vision loss of people with diabetes.