A dilated fundus exam is a comprehensive eye examination in which eye drops are used to dilate, or widen, the pupil so that the eye doctor can examine the back of the eye, including the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels.
During the exam, the eye doctor will use a special instrument called an ophthalmoscope to view the inside of the eye. The ophthalmoscope has a light and a magnifying lens that allow the eye doctor to see the structures at the back of the eye more clearly.
The eye drops used to dilate the pupil may cause temporary blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light, so it is recommended that patients bring someone to drive them home after the exam. The effects of the eye drops usually wear off within a few hours.
A dilated fundus exam is an important part of a comprehensive eye exam, particularly for people with a history of eye problems or certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, which can increase the risk of eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy or glaucoma. It can also help detect other eye conditions, such as age-related macular degeneration or retinal detachment, which may not cause symptoms in the early stages.
Dr. Sarbjit Singh