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An electroretinogram (ERG) is a painless diagnostic procedure that evaluates the function of the retina, the light-sensitive lining on the back of the eye where light is focused. This test can aid in the diagnosis of several retinal conditions that can lead to serious complications, including permanent vision loss.
During the ERG procedure, the doctor places a contact lens on the eye to record electrical responses in retinal cells to flashes of light. By measuring these responses to the light under varying conditions, your doctor can determine how well the retina is functioning.
The entire ERG procedure typically takes 30-45 minutes to perform and is available to our patients at Wills Eye Hospital. This procedure is performed with dilated pupils in order to achieve the most accurate results.
Your doctor can evaluate the health of the retina using this diagnostic modality. This technology allows your doctor to detect retinal diseases/conditions at early stages and has made timely intervention possible in many cases.