Project status
Complete
Key learnings
- Technical staff and patients preferred the virtual reality (VR) model as it provided clear instructions and required less manipulation. It also did not appear to be dependent on patient positioning, which is a requirement of both laptop-based models and existing ‘gold standard’ units.
- By contrast, non-technical staff found the VR model difficult to use and some patients described motion-related discomfort.
- The use of a cloud-based program allowed easy transfer of data and more collaborative opportunities between ophthalmology and optometry.
- No single device is yet to represent an absolute advantage. The focus group identified several key requirements for any unit including the integration within the clinic’s workflow.
Project overview
Visual field testing is central in the diagnosis and management of glaucoma, as well as other optic nerve and visual pathway disorders.
Conventional automated perimetry requires expensive machinery, trained operators and a relatively large machine footprint, and depends on adequate instructions, patient positioning and supervision. Patients often dislike their experience of perimetry.
Ideally, perimetry would be adaptable to different settings, have short test durations and be comfortable and easy for patients while maintaining accuracy. There have been continued advances in software and hardware to achieve this goal.
This project reviewed three new devices which were either laptop-based or VR-based programs.
Research findings
- All three tested devices had relative advantages and disadvantages.
- The project has outlined these for clinicians, and may expedite the introduction of viable alternatives which could represent a further benefit to the ongoing care of glaucoma patients globally.
- This project serves as a platform for further analysis and review.
