Medical Optometry

What’s New at TSO Longview

In keeping with providing the latest technology in eye care and treatment Texas State Optical-Longview has added the following equipment and services.

OCT-Ocular Coherence Tomography- this is a method to obtain detailed images of the retina. This is a scanning laser which will scan thru the various layers of the retina (there are 10 layers) to reveal any abnormalities such as thinning in a particular layer, fluid under a layer, or other problems. These images can be obtained non-invasively and, in most cases, without dilation.

Our OCT is the first to offer vivo imaging, so that the doctor can detect and monitor changes such as in macular degeneration and glaucoma with an unparalleled level of detail and accuracy. OCT imaging is the ultrasound of optics but at a much higher resolution than other imaging modalities such as MRI. A more accurate reading means an earlier detection and diagnosis of a sight threatening disease. We have had this technology since January 2010 and in cases of disease most medical insurance plans will cover the cost of the testing.

Paperless Records: The latest trend in healthcare and eyecare is to go paperless with charts and records. TSO Longview has purchased Office Mate practice management software and is in the process of converting all new patient’s charts to electronic medical records which allow patient records to be sent to other doctors easily and quickly. Also, the chance of misfiled or lost records is eliminated.

All healthcare records are eventually to be rendered paperless by federal mandate. TSO Longview is trying to stay ahead of the curve and begin the transition now.

Retinal Photos: TSO Longview is offering patients an opportunity to have their retina photographed for a minimum charge of $15.  The photograph becomes a part of the records which allows several advantages to the doctor and the patient. One, the doctor can monitor any changes in the retina. Two, we will offer to email your photos to you or your medical doctor at no additional charge. Three, the doctor will go over your results at the time of your exam pointing out any changes, concerns, or deviations from normal.

This service allows us to utilize this latest technology to provide you a means of monitoring and evaluating your eye’s health. Your eye exam at TSO Longview is more than just a refraction for your eyeglass prescription. Your eyes provide a window to the overall health of your body. Diabetes, hypertension, etc. can be detected by a thorough examination of your eyes.

Fundus photography takes pictures of the retina (back of the eye) to determine or monitor the extent or development of such conditions as diabetic retinopathy or hypertensive retinopathy. Other conditions may also be revealed by a careful examination of the retina. All unusual or suspicious conditions are documented by means of fundus photographs.

Anterior segment photography captures the front of the eye. These photographs document such conditions as cataracts, corneal scarring and ulcers, neovascularization from contact lens over wear or improper care, lid lesions or growths or other unusual manifestations of the anterior part of the eye.

Some of these conditions are documented with photographs as presented below.

Styes		Pterygium
Corneal lesion		Degenerative myopia

Blue Nevus