A laser retina scan is not necessary as part of an eye exam. However, some examinations can become technically difficult, and the eye doctor may require the scan to complement the traditional eye exam. Ideally, it should not replace the conventional eye examination with dilation. In a laser retina scan, the eye may or may not be dilated, and the test produces digital retinal images. It can detect eye diseases as well as other conditions like stroke and hypertension. The scan is limited since it can fail to detect issues on the retina’s outer edges.