Fluorescein Angiography
This test is very useful in evaluating problems of the macula, or the center of the retina. A vegetable-based dye is injected into the arm and then photographs are taken of the back of the eye as the dye circulates throughout the body and the blood vessels in the retina.
Many diseases of the macula will be seen as to “light up” as it passes through the blood vessels of the eye allowing for timely management. Thanks to a completely computerized camera and screen, results can be seen immediately and can be stored for future comparison.
Indocyanine Green (ICG) Angiography
This test is similar to fluorescein angiography in that a dye is injected into the vein in the arm and we take photographs over time to help us diagnose problems in the back of the eye. The difference, however, is that the dye is used to study mainly the choroidal circulation, or the layer of blood vessels underneath the retina. ICG angiography is used less frequently than fluorescein angiography, but it can be especially useful in cases where blood obscures visualization of the retina. ICG angiography is also performed with a digital (computerized) system at Retina Care Specialists, allowing for immediate interpretation by the physician.
