[Recommendations for a standardized perimetry within the framework of epilepsy surgery]

Epilepsy surgery aims to achieve a seizure-free outcome and to gain relevant socio-medicinal prospects for the patients. After successful temporal lobe resection eligibility for driving is established during the seizure-free period. However, extended postoperative homonymous visual field defects can preclude from driving. This article will give an overview of the objectives of postoperative perimetry, particularly with respect to the visual field criteria for driving and neurosurgical outcome evaluation. A literature review details the perimetry methods applied in neurosurgical outcome studies. Based on a discussion of methodological difficulties of visual field testing, suggestions for a uniform procedure for perimetric examinations are developed. Only a strict standardization with special consideration of the postoperative interval, examination strategies and quantification of the area of field lost allows meaningful comparisons between operation techniques, surgical approaches, target areas and surgical centres.