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Alternative Names Return to top
Echography - eye; Ultrasound - eyeDefinition Return to top
An eye and orbit ultrasound is a test to look at the eye area, and to measure the size and structures of the eye.
How the Test is Performed Return to top
The test is usually done in the ophthalmologist’s office or the ophthalmology department.
You usually sit in a chair. Your eye is numbed with medicine (anesthetic drops). The ultrasound wand (transducer) is placed against the front surface of the eye.
The ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves that travel through the eye. Reflections (echoes) of the sound waves form a picture of the structure of the eye. The test takes about 15 minutes.
There are two types of scans:
How to Prepare for the Test Return to top
No special preparation is needed for this test.
How the Test Will Feel Return to top
Your eye is numbed, so you shouldn't have any discomfort. You may be asked to look in different directions to improve the ultrasound image or so it can view different areas of your eye.
A lubricant placed on the ultrasound wand may run on your cheek, but you won't feel any discomfort or pain.
Why the Test is Performed Return to top
The ultrasound can examine the farthest part of the eyeball when you have cataracts or other conditions that make it hard for the doctor to look into your eye. The test may help diagnose retinal detachment or other disorders when the eye is not clear and the ophthalmologist cannot use routine examining equipment.
An A-scan ultrasound measures the eye to determine the proper power of a lens implant before cataract surgery.
Normal Results Return to top
The structures of the eyeball appear normal.
What Abnormal Results Mean Return to top
The test may show:
Risks Return to top
To avoid scratching the cornea, do not rub the numbed eye until the anesthetic wears off (about 15 minutes). There are no other risks.
Update Date: 1/13/2009 Updated by: Luc Jasmin, MD, PhD, Department of Neurosurgery and Gene Therapeutics Research Instiutte, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
