An eye and orbit ultrasound is a test to look at the eye area. It also measures the size and structures of the eye.
Alternative Names
Echography - eye orbit; Ultrasound - eye orbit; Ocular ultrasonography; Orbital ultrasonography
How the Test is Performed
The test is most often done in the ophthalmologist's office or the ophthalmology department of a hospital or clinic.
Your eye is numbed with medicine (anesthetic drops). The ultrasound wand (transducer) is placed against the front surface of the eye.
The ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves that travel through the eye. Reflections (echoes) of the sound waves form a picture of the structure of the eye. The test takes about 15 minutes.
There are two types of scans: A-scan and B-scan.
For the A-scan:
- You will most often sit in a chair and place your chin on a chin rest. You will look straight ahead.
- A small probe is placed against the front of your eye.
- The test may also be done with you lying back. With this method, a fluid-filled cup is placed against your eye to do the test.
For the B-scan:
- You will be seated and you may be asked to look in many directions. The test is most often done with your eyes closed.
- A gel is placed on the skin of your eyelids. The B-scan probe is gently placed against your eyelids to do the test.
