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Field expansion for homonymous hemianopia by optically induced peripheral exotropia
1The Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School and New England Eye Center, New England Medical Center Hospitals, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA. eli@vision.eri.harvard.edu
Summary
This study introduces a new prism correction for hemianopia, expanding visual field and improving patient mobility. The novel optical treatment effectively enhances functional vision and obstacle avoidance.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optometry
- Visual Neuroscience
Background:
- Hemianopia, a significant visual field defect, impairs mobility and daily functioning.
- Current management strategies for hemianopia have limitations in providing comprehensive visual field expansion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel prism correction method for hemianopia, offering convenient and functional field-of-view expansion.
- To evaluate the initial clinical application and effectiveness of this prism system.
Main Methods:
- A novel optical treatment utilizing high-power prism segments (30-40 delta) placed on spectacle lenses to expand the visual field.
- Prisms are positioned to induce peripheral exotropia, shifting visual scene segments laterally to compensate for the hemianopic loss.
- Evaluation involved binocular perimetry and a case series of 12 patients with hemianopia.
Main Results:
- The prism correction successfully expanded the visual field, providing awareness of details within the scotoma.
- Field expansion was effective across various gaze positions, including gaze away from the hemianopic side.
- Patients reported significant improvements in functional vision and obstacle avoidance.
Conclusions:
- A novel optical method for treating hemianopia using prism correction has been developed and validated.
- The technique is effective in expanding the visual field and demonstrably aids in patient mobility.
- This approach offers a promising solution for enhancing the quality of life for individuals with hemianopia.