INDIRECT OPHTHALMOSCOPY Meaning and
Definition
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Indirect ophthalmoscopy is a diagnostic technique commonly performed in ophthalmology to examine the back of the eye, particularly the retina and optic nerve. This non-invasive procedure uses a specialized instrument called an indirect ophthalmoscope, which consists of a light source, mirrors, and lenses.
During the procedure, the patient's eyes are dilated, which allows for a better view of the internal structures. The ophthalmologist or technician wears the ophthalmoscope on their head and uses a handheld lens to direct a beam of light into the eye. The reflected light from the eye is then observed through the lenses, creating an enlarged and three-dimensional image of the retina.
This technique provides a wide-field view of the entire retina, allowing the practitioner to evaluate its condition, identify any abnormalities, and assess the health of blood vessels, nerves, and other structures. In addition, indirect ophthalmoscopy is particularly useful for detecting conditions such as retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and optic nerve diseases.
By combining the movement of the practitioner's head and the instrument, different areas of the retina can be examined thoroughly. Indirect ophthalmoscopy is typically performed in a darkened room to enhance visualization of the eye's interior.
Overall, indirect ophthalmoscopy is an essential tool in ophthalmology, enabling comprehensive examination and evaluation of the posterior segment of the eye, leading to accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of various ocular diseases.
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Examination of the fundus by means of the interposition of a convex lens, the image being an inverted one.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for INDIRECT OPHTHALMOSCOPY
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Etymology of INDIRECT OPHTHALMOSCOPY
The word "indirect ophthalmoscopy" is derived from several sources:
1. Indirect: The term "indirect" originates from the Latin word "indirectus", which means "not straight" or "deviating from a direct course". In the context of ophthalmoscopy, it refers to the technique of examining the eye indirectly by utilizing a condensing lens or mirror to view the retina.
2. Ophthalmoscopy: The word "ophthalmoscopy" comes from the combination of two Greek words, "ophthalmos" (meaning "eye") and "skopein" (meaning "to examine" or "to observe"). Ophthalmoscopy refers to the process of visually examining the interior of the eye, specifically the fundus (back of the eye) including the retina, optic disc, blood vessels, and other structures.
