Slit lamp examination is an examination, in which the ophthalmologist looks at the front section of the eye. Therefore, a slit lamp is used, which produces a narrow beam of light. With the slit lamp, the doctor sees if there is turbidity in the eye lens. Additionally, the doctor examines how much the patient can still see and whether the eyes are furthermore healthy.

Indication

Indication

A slit lamp examination is frequently performed by the ophthalmologist. It belongs to the standard examination that is done in case of eye problems.

Working

Working

A slit lamp is a device with a light and a microscope. The light produces a narrow, intense beam of light. The microscope provides magnification of the image, so the ophthalmologist can better see all details. The doctor looks systematically at the eyelids, the cornea, the anterior chamber, the iris and the pupil, the lens and the front part of the vitreous humour.

Procedure

Procedure

Often, the eyes are first instilled with drops that widen the pupils. The patient takes a seat behind the slit lamp. The chin is put onto the chin-rest of the device and the forehead rests against the head support. The doctor darkens the room and looks through the slit lamp at the eye of the patient. Sometimes, the eye is dripped with fluorescein, so defects of the cornea can be detected.

Facts

Facts