The repeatability and variability of the multifocal electroretinogram for four different electrodes

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) is crucial for assessing retinal function.
• Standardized and reliable electrode performance is essential for accurate mfERG interpretation.
• Various electrode types exist, each with potential advantages and disadvantages for signal acquisition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the reliability and variability of four different electrode types used in multifocal electroretinography (mfERG).
• To evaluate the performance of JET contact lens, gold foil, DTL thread, and carbon fibre (c-glide) electrodes over multiple recording sessions.

Main Methods:

• Multifocal electroretinograms were recorded from 12 healthy subjects (18-40 years) on three separate days using the Visual Evoked Response Imaging System (VERIS).
• Four electrode types (JET, gold foil, DTL thread, c-glide) were tested.
• B-wave amplitude density and coefficient of variation were calculated for each electrode and subject.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in mean b-wave amplitude density were found among the four electrode types across the three recording days.
• Significant differences in the coefficient of variation (variability) were observed between the electrodes (One-way ANOVA, P < 0.008).
• The carbon fibre (c-glide) electrode demonstrated the highest variability, significantly differing from the JET and gold foil electrodes.

Conclusions:

• While all tested electrodes provide comparable b-wave amplitude density, the carbon fibre (c-glide) electrode exhibits greater variability in mfERG recordings.
• The choice of electrode may influence the reliability of mfERG measurements, particularly in longitudinal studies.
• Further investigation into electrode design and signal processing may be warranted to improve mfERG consistency.