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Fundoscopy is a procedure to examine the back of the eye, including the blood vessels, retina, optic disc, and choroid, using an ophthalmoscope or funduscope. There are three types of fundoscopy: direct endoscopy, indirect fundoscopy, and slit-lamp endoscopy. People with diabetes should have this examination at least once a year to detect any changes in vision caused by the disease.
Also known as ophthalmoscopy or funduscopy, fundoscopy is a procedure in which the back of the eye is examined. This part of the eye, known as the fundus, includes the blood vessels that feed the eye, the retina, the optic disc, and the choroid. There are actually three different forms of this type of procedure, all conducted using an instrument known as an ophthalmoscope or fundusoscope.
The first version of the procedure is known as direct endoscopy. In this process, the patient is placed in a dark room, usually in a sitting position. A small beam of light is directed onto the pupil of the eye using the ophthalmoscope. The light is sufficient for the ophthalmologist to examine the back of the eye while the patient is asked to look in various directions.
Indirect fundoscopy involves placing the patient in a semi-recumbent position and applying drops that help the eye dilate. The eyelids are held open while a bright light is directed at the eye. With this procedure, the ophthalmologist wears a light on the head, often using a device that resembles a miner’s hat. This leaves the caregiver’s hands free to use a small instrument to press lightly against the eye during the exam as the patient is asked to look in different directions.
Slit-lamp endoscopy also involves placing the patient in a sitting position and giving drops to the eye. The slit lamp includes a chin rest that makes it easier for the patient to maintain a steady position during the course of the exam. With this approach, a narrow band of light is directed into the eyeball, allowing the ophthalmologist to clearly identify any conditions that indicate the presence of some type of eye disease or degradation. The intensity of light used with this procedure sometimes causes patients to be sensitive to light for several hours, requiring patients to use sunglasses or other forms of eyewear to protect their eyes until the sensitivity wears off.
People with diabetes often have a fundoscopy of some kind done at least once a year. Depending on the severity of their condition, this type of examination should be conducted every six months. This helps detect any changes in vision that may be occurring as the disease progresses, allowing medical professionals to explore options for minimizing damage to the eye.
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