International Practice in Care Provision for Post-stroke Visual Impairment

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Post-stroke visual impairment affects a significant number of stroke survivors.
• Effective management requires coordinated care pathways and standardized assessment protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and document international orthoptic practices in managing visual impairment following stroke.
• To identify common assessment tools, treatment strategies, and follow-up care provided by orthoptists.

Main Methods:

• A global survey was distributed to orthoptists via professional organizations.
• Survey questions covered visual problem identification, treatment, follow-up, care pathways, and interprofessional collaboration.

Main Results:

• 299 orthoptists completed the survey, with over half seeing stroke survivors within one month post-stroke.
• High utilization of validated tests for visual acuity, visual fields, and eye movements was reported.
• Most orthoptists provided information on visual impairment, though only 56.9% used designated care pathways.

Conclusions:

• International orthoptic practice shows consensus on assessing and managing post-stroke visual impairment.
• Standardized use of validated tests and established treatments is prevalent.
• The findings can inform the selection of core outcome measures in stroke vision care.