Slit Lamp

A slit lamp is a device for conducting eye biomicroscopy, which allows you to examine the condition of the retina and cornea of ​​the eye using a microscope. It is a combination of a binocular microscope and a special light source with a slit diaphragm, which creates a narrow beam of light that penetrates the pupil of the eye.

The use of a slit lamp allows for a detailed study of the structure of the cornea and retina, as well as diagnosing various eye diseases, such as cataracts, glaucoma, retinal dystrophy and others.

The principle of the slit lamp is based on the fact that a narrow beam of light passes through the pupil and hits the surface of the cornea, where it is reflected and enters the eyeball. Thanks to this, you can see the structure of the retina, blood vessels and other tissues of the eye in detail.

One of the main advantages of using a slit lamp is the ability to conduct a detailed examination of the fundus, which is especially important when diagnosing glaucoma and cataracts. In addition, the slit lamp allows for accurate diagnosis of the condition of the cornea and identification of various diseases, such as keratitis, conjunctivitis and others.

The slit lamp is a medical device that allows examination of the organs of vision. For this purpose, the device can be compared to a microscope with special lenses. It is very important that the examination takes place at close distances of 1-2 cm from the mucous membrane of the eyeball.

The idea of ​​the design appeared at the beginning of the 20th century, but the slit lamp became widespread in the mid-50s. The device is used to treat various diseases of the mucous membranes of the eyes. Thanks to the presence in the description of a slit lens, which forms a beam of light with a thin stalk and makes it possible to study the corresponding areas of the fundus. In the field of ophthalmology, the device is also popular for diagnostics, since it can be used to detect many diseases at a very early stage of development. The popularity of this device is also due to the fact that eye problems often arise at a young age, and timely examination and therapy become the key to a successful solution to the problem. To determine the degree of damage, various means are used: drops, drugs, ointments. Correctly determining the condition of a diseased organ is possible only under the guidance of the attending physician. Carrying out diagnostics without taking into account contraindications can lead to complications and even loss of vision. The appointment of a slit lamp is based on the following diagnostic principles: • absence of pain in the patient; • wide view of the surface of the eye structure; • absolute safety and reliability of the data obtained.

Examination with a slit apparatus is completely painless. Observation is carried out at a close distance (0.5 cm) from the inner layer of the eye, so the patient only feels a dim light and slight pressure on the closed eyelids. Diagnosis is carried out by an ophthalmologist who has significant experience working with the device. If there is any doubt or malfunction of any element is detected, repeated diagnostics are required.