Reliability of Visual Field Testing in a Telehealth Setting Using a Head-Mounted Device: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Technology
• Vision Science

Background:

• Visual field (VF) monitoring is crucial for diagnosing and managing eye conditions.
• Traditional VF testing requires specialized equipment and in-clinic visits.
• Virtual reality (VR) offers a potential solution for remote and accessible VF assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reliability and usability of a self-administered, remote VR visual field (VRVF) device.
• To compare VRVF test results with standard automated perimetry (SAP) in individuals with and without ocular disease.

Main Methods:

• Recruited participants without ocular disease and with stable VF defects.
• Administered baseline standard automated perimetry (SAP).
• Participants completed remote VRVF tests over four weeks, with the last three unassisted, comparing results for reliability.

Main Results:

• VRVF testing demonstrated good test-retest and inter-test reliability, with reasonable agreement with SAP.
• Participants with stable VF defects showed better agreement with SAP than those without ocular disease.
• High and variable fixation losses were observed in VRVF tests, particularly in certain individuals. Participants found the device comfortable and easy to use.

Conclusions:

• Self-administered remote VRVF testing is reliable, usable, and acceptable.
• External factors and individual characteristics like age and visual impairment can impact at-home testing accuracy.
• Further research with larger sample sizes is recommended to address fixation inconsistencies.