Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Systems
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has become the everyday standard of care for cross-sectional, micron-scale imaging of the eye. Using low-coherence light, an OCT captures depth-resolved scans that let clinicians see individual retinal layers, the optic nerve head, the choroid, and the structures of the anterior segment without contact or dye. In practice, that means earlier detection and tighter monitoring of glaucoma, AMD, diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, and epiretinal membranes on the posterior side, and precise assessment of the cornea, anterior chamber angle, and crystalline lens on the anterior side. Modern systems split into two broad families: posterior-segment retinal OCT (often spectral-domain, and frequently bundled with a non-mydriatic fundus camera and OCT angiography) and anterior-segment OCT (typically swept-source, tuned for cornea, angle, and cataract or refractive planning).
As a US-based ophthalmic and optometric equipment provider, US Ophthalmic helps ODs, MDs, and lab owners specify the right OCT rather than simply ship a box. Our lineup spans the Huvitz HOCT all-in-one platform for retinal imaging, fundus, angiography, and biometry, plus the Tomey CASIA2 for dedicated anterior-segment work plus our own EZER house brand across the wider diagnostic range. Every system is backed by our in-house technical and repair department, genuine spare-parts support, and a US warranty, so your OCT stays calibrated and productive long after purchase. Whether you are adding your first OCT or standardizing across multiple lanes, we can match technology, modules, and service to how your practice actually works.</intro>
<parameter name="how_to_choose_heading">How to choose an OCT system
How to choose
- Posterior, anterior, or both: Decide which segment you image most. Retinal OCT targets the macula, optic nerve, and choroid for glaucoma and retinal disease, while anterior-segment OCT focuses on the cornea, angle, and lens for corneal, glaucoma, and cataract/refractive planning. Some practices need one dedicated platform; others need coverage across both.
- SD-OCT vs. SS-OCT: Spectral-domain (SD-OCT) is the workhorse for retinal imaging and is well suited to most general and screening workflows. Swept-source (SS-OCT), like the CASIA2, uses a longer wavelength for deeper penetration and wider scans, which is valuable through opaque media and for detailed anterior-segment and choroidal work.
- All-in-one vs. standalone: An all-in-one platform such as the HOCT-1F combines OCT with a non-mydriatic color fundus camera in a single footprint, streamlining capture and saving lane space. A standalone OCT like the HOCT-1 fits practices that already own fundus imaging or want a leaner, OCT-only device.
- OCT angiography (OCT-A): If you want dye-free visualization of retinal and choroidal microvasculature for AMD, diabetic, or vascular disease, look for OCT-A capability. On the Huvitz platform this can be added through the H Angio Module, so you can start with structural OCT and layer in angiography later.
- Modularity and upgrade path: Consider how the system grows with you. The HOCT platform supports add-on modules for angiography, biometry, corneal topography, and wide-field lenses, letting you expand clinical capability without replacing the base unit as your case mix evolves.
- Service, warranty, and new vs. refurbished: An OCT is a long-term instrument, so factor in calibration, parts availability, and repair turnaround. Buying from a provider with an in-house service department, genuine spare parts, and a US warranty protects uptime. Certified pre-owned units can lower entry cost when they are properly refurbished and backed by the same support.
OCT models and modules we carry
The table below outlines representative OCT systems and platform modules available through US Ophthalmic. Complete configurations, module compatibility, and current availability are confirmed on quotation.
| Model | Type | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| HOCT-1F (80) | Posterior-segment all-in-one (OCT + non-mydriatic fundus) | Practices wanting OCT and color fundus imaging in one footprint |
| HOCT-1 (80) | Posterior-segment spectral-domain OCT | Retina and glaucoma imaging without an onboard fundus camera |
| CASIA2 | Anterior-segment swept-source OCT | Cornea, angle, and cataract or refractive planning workflows |
| H Angio Module | OCT angiography upgrade for the HOCT platform | Adding dye-free retinal and choroidal vascular imaging |
| HOCT-Biometry Module | Biometry / axial-length upgrade for the HOCT platform | Adding IOL-planning measurements to an existing HOCT system |
| HOCT-Topography Module | Corneal topography upgrade for the HOCT platform | Extending an HOCT into anterior corneal mapping |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SD-OCT and SS-OCT? Spectral-domain OCT (SD-OCT) uses a shorter-wavelength light source and is the established standard for detailed retinal imaging in most clinics. Swept-source OCT (SS-OCT) uses a longer wavelength that penetrates deeper and scans wider, which helps when imaging through opaque media and when assessing the choroid or the full anterior segment. The Huvitz HOCT retinal systems are spectral-domain, while the Tomey CASIA2 is a swept-source anterior-segment platform.
Do I need OCT angiography (OCT-A)? OCT angiography provides dye-free imaging of retinal and choroidal blood flow, which is useful for managing AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and other vascular conditions. If that case mix is central to your practice, OCT-A is worth prioritizing. On the Huvitz HOCT platform it can be added through the H Angio Module, so you can begin with structural OCT and expand into angiography when you are ready.
What is the difference between the HOCT-1 and HOCT-1F? Both share the same core spectral-domain OCT engine for retinal imaging. The HOCT-1F adds an integrated high-resolution, non-mydriatic color fundus camera in the same unit, so you capture OCT and fundus images from one device. The HOCT-1 is the OCT-focused configuration, a good fit when you already have fundus imaging or want a more streamlined instrument.
Should I choose anterior-segment or posterior-segment OCT? It depends on your clinical focus. Posterior-segment OCT, like the HOCT series, images the macula, optic nerve, and choroid for retina and glaucoma care. Anterior-segment OCT, like the CASIA2, images the cornea, chamber angle, and lens for corneal, angle, and cataract or refractive planning. Higher-volume or subspecialty practices sometimes run both; we can help you decide based on your patient population.
Should I buy a new or refurbished OCT, and how is it supported? New systems offer the latest imaging and full upgrade paths, while properly refurbished units can lower the entry cost for a first OCT or a second lane. Either way, support is what protects your investment. US Ophthalmic backs its OCT systems with an in-house technical and repair department, genuine spare parts, and a US warranty, so your device stays calibrated and serviceable over its full working life.
