EyeTel

What is an EyeTel exam?

An EyeTel exam tests for diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetic complication that is caused by increased pressure on the small veins behind the eye. Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness, and can be prevented with the appropriate diabetic assistance in Indiana. An EyeTel exam takes pictures of the small blood vessels of the eye to reveal if diabetes is affecting the eye.

How can I prepare for this test?

Since your eyes will be dilated for this test, you may want to bring dark sunglasses to help you see with dilated eyes. If you feel uncomfortable driving with dilated eyes, you may want to arrange for a driver.

If you wear contacts, they must be removed for the test. You may want to bring your contact supplies with you and a pair of glasses.

How is the test done?

The test will be ordered by your Indiana internal medicine doctor or one of our endocrinology specialists. The test is very simple and similar to getting your eyes checked. Dilation drops are put into the eyes so the pupils can fully enlarge. You will then look into the EyeTel machine where you will see moving lights while the camera takes digital images of the back of your eyes.

How will the results be used?

The images taken from the camera are sent to Johns Hopkins University Eye Clinic where they are analyzed. It typically takes approximately one week for us to receive the results. After we have received the results, the doctor reviews the images and report. You will receive a phone call if treatment is necessary. The test will be repeated in one year as maintenance. It is important to follow through with the maintenance testing to ensure that any problems are caught early and can be treated.

How long will the test take?

The test takes approximately 30 minutes.

What else do I need to know?

This test is noninvasive and painless. The day of your procedure your eyes will be dilated and this dilation will typically last between 1 and 2 hours.

To learn more about the EyeTel exam, or schedule an appointment, please call 219-922-3020.