AI reading of OCT scans arrives in UK eye clinics

Optical coherence tomography produces a cross-section of the retina in seconds. The volume of scans generated across the NHS and private sector is enormous, and analysis software is now used to sort urgent findings from routine ones.

What the software is good at

Detecting fluid under or within the retina, measuring changes over time and flagging scans that deviate from a previous baseline. These are pattern tasks where consistency beats human fatigue.

What it cannot do

It cannot take a history, examine the front of the eye, weigh a patient's general health, or decide whether surgery is the right answer. Software narrows the list; a consultant makes the diagnosis.

Why this matters before cataract or lens surgery

Undetected macular disease is one of the main reasons a technically perfect lens operation disappoints. A full retinal assessment before surgery protects the result, and any reputable pre-operative work-up includes one.

What patients should ask

Ask whether your consultation includes OCT imaging, who interprets it, and whether findings are explained to you on the day.

What this means if you are considering surgery in the UK

New technology only helps when it is matched to the right eye. Ms Tahmina Pearsall FRCOphth is a UK consultant ophthalmic surgeon on the GMC specialist register with more than 40,000 eye procedures performed, and she assesses every patient personally before recommending anything. If advanced retinal imaging is relevant to you, a consultation will tell you whether it changes your options — or whether a simpler, better-established treatment gives you a safer result.

Book a consultation with Ms Pearsall

Consultations are available at clinics across the UK, including London Harley Street, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Reading and Southampton. You can book a consultation, arrange a free 15-minute call, see treatment prices, read verified patient reviews or find your nearest clinic.