Effect of visual restitution training on absolute homonymous scotomas

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neuroscience
• Visual Rehabilitation

Background:

• Homonymous visual field defects (HVFDs) result from damage to the optic radiations or visual cortex.
• Stable HVFDs present significant challenges for daily functioning and independence.
• Current rehabilitation strategies for HVFDs have shown variable efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of visual restitution training (VRT) in patients with stable homonymous visual field defects (HVFDs).
• To quantify the training effect using static automated perimetry (SAP).

Main Methods:

• 16 patients with stable HVFDs were enrolled.
• Static automated perimetry (SAP) was used to assess visual fields before and after VRT.
• Training effect (E) was calculated as the change in the proportion of absolutely defective locations.

Main Results:

• The mean training effect (E) was 0.05 +/- 0.05.
• A relevant training effect (E >= 0.12) was observed in only two subjects, and this effect was strictly monocular.
• VRT demonstrated minimal impact on absolute HVFDs as measured by SAP.

Conclusions:

• Visual restitution training (VRT) has a limited effect on stable homonymous visual field defects (HVFDs) assessed with static automated perimetry (SAP).
• Further research is needed to explore alternative or adjunctive therapies for improving visual function in HVFD patients.