Microperimetry-Based Fixation Training in Patients with Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Vision Science
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, with no current treatments for geographic atrophy and macular scarring.
• Visual rehabilitation is crucial for AMD patients experiencing central vision loss.
• Microperimetry aids functional assessment and fixation training to optimize remaining vision.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of microperimetry-based fixation training for vision rehabilitation in patients with AMD-related geographic atrophy or macular scarring.
• To assess improvements in visual acuity, fixation stability, and quality of life following the training.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 25 patients (50 eyes) with bilateral central scotomas due to AMD.
• Utilized the MAIA II microperimeter for functional assessment and 10 weekly fixation training sessions.
• Assessed visual acuity, fixation parameters (P1, P2, BCEA), and quality of life (NEI-VFQ-25) pre- and post-training.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were observed in both trained and untrained eyes.
• Enhanced fixation stability, indicated by increased P1/P2 values and reduced Bivariate Contour Ellipse Area (BCEA).
• Quality of life scores improved significantly across 9 out of 11 domains of the NEI-VFQ-25.

Conclusions:

• Microperimetry is a valuable tool for assessing visual function in AMD patients.
• Fixation training with the MAIA II microperimeter is a safe and effective vision rehabilitation strategy for AMD patients with geographic atrophy and macular scarring.
• The training benefits extend to fellow eyes, suggesting potential for broader visual system adaptation.