CLARUS Ultra Wide-Field Color Fundus Photos | SLMC

CLARUS ULTRA WIDE-FIELD COLOR FUNDUS PHOTOS

Clarus ultra wide-field color fundus photography is an advanced retinal imaging service that captures highly detailed, true-color photographs of the back of the eye. This technology allows your eye doctor to view a much larger retinal area in a single image compared with standard fundus cameras. As a result, it supports earlier detection, better documentation, and more precise monitoring of many sight-threatening eye conditions.

WHAT THIS TEST DOES

This imaging service uses ultra wide-field technology to document up to a far peripheral view of the retina. Unlike traditional retinal photos, Clarus imaging produces high-resolution, natural-color images with better contrast and clarity. Therefore, doctors can evaluate the macula, optic nerve, blood vessels, and peripheral retina more accurately in one session.

In addition, these images become part of your permanent medical record. Your doctor can compare them over time to check for progression or response to treatment.

WHO MAY BENEFIT

Your ophthalmologist may recommend Clarus ultra wide-field fundus photos if you have risk factors or known retinal disease. For example, this test is useful for patients with:

1. Diabetes or hypertensive eye disease
2. Retinal tears, holes, or detachments
3. Macular degeneration or macular disorders
4. Glaucoma or optic nerve concerns
5. High myopia or peripheral retinal degeneration
6. Unexplained visual symptoms such as flashes or floaters

HOW THE PROCEDURE IS PERFORMED

The test is noninvasive, quick, and clinic-based. First, a trained eye care staff member positions you in front of the camera. Next, you will be asked to look at specific fixation targets while images are captured. In many cases, the test can be completed without pupil dilation. However, dilation may still be advised when a wider or clearer view is required.

Because no contact with the eye occurs, most patients tolerate the procedure very well. You can usually return to normal activities right away, unless dilating drops are used.

KEY ADVANTAGES

Clarus ultra wide-field imaging offers several practical advantages. For instance, it captures more retinal area in fewer shots. Moreover, it produces true-color images that closely match what doctors see during a clinical examination. As a result, clinical decisions become more accurate and consistent.

It also improves long-term monitoring. When images are repeated at future visits, even small retinal changes can be detected earlier.

LIMITATIONS AND CLINICAL USE

This service supports diagnosis and monitoring, but it does not replace a complete eye examination. Your ophthalmologist still correlates imaging findings with clinical evaluation and other tests when needed. Therefore, treatment decisions always depend on the full clinical picture.

Early retinal documentation leads to earlier intervention. Consequently, timely ultra wide-field retinal imaging plays an important role in protecting vision and guiding personalized eye care.