Name of the Procedure:

Visual Field Assessment with Real-Time Data Analysis and Remote Surveillance

Summary

A visual field assessment is a test that measures your peripheral (side) vision and your ability to see objects in different areas of your vision field. With real-time data analysis and accessible data storage, the results are immediately analyzed and stored digitally. For up to 30 days, patients can initiate transmissions of their data to a remote surveillance center for continuous monitoring. Technical support and patient instructions are provided to ensure a seamless experience.

Purpose

This procedure is performed to diagnose and monitor eye conditions that affect peripheral vision, such as glaucoma, stroke, brain tumors, or neurological conditions. The goal is to detect any changes or abnormalities in the visual field quickly and accurately, which aids in early intervention and management.

Indications

• Symptoms like unexplained visual disturbances, blind spots, tunnel vision, or difficulty seeing at night.
• Conditions such as glaucoma, retinal disease, strokes, optic neuropathy, and neurological disorders.
• Monitoring vision changes in patients with known ocular or neurological conditions.

Preparation

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments required unless specified by your healthcare provider.
• Remove glasses or contact lenses prior to the test.
• Ensure you are in a well-rested and comfortable state.

Procedure Description

1. Pre-Assessment: The healthcare provider explains the test and answers any questions.
2. Equipment Use: You will sit in front of a machine called a perimeter and place your chin on a chin rest.
3. Testing Process: One eye is tested at a time while the other is covered. You will be asked to focus on a central target, typically a light, while lights flash in your peripheral vision. You press a button each time you see a light.
4. Data Collection: The machine collects data on which lights you see and which you don't.
5. Real-Time Analysis: Data is immediately analyzed by sophisticated software to assess your visual field.
6. Remote Surveillance: For up to 30 days, you can initiate further data transmissions as needed, which are sent to a remote surveillance center for continuous monitoring.

Duration

The entire assessment typically takes about 30-45 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is performed in a clinical setting, such as an ophthalmologist’s office, an outpatient clinic, or a hospital’s eye care department.

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist or Optometrist
• Trained Technicians or Assistants
• Remote Surveillance Team (data analysts and support staff)

Risks and Complications

• The procedure is non-invasive and generally has no significant risks.
• Rarely, patients may experience eye strain or discomfort.
• Incorrect data interpretation can occur, managed by re-assessment or consultation.

Benefits

• Early and accurate detection of visual field abnormalities.
• Continuous monitoring allows for timely interventions.
• Immediate data analysis and storage for easy reference and further consultations.

Recovery

• No downtime is required.
• Resume normal activities immediately after the test.
• Follow up with your healthcare provider as advised.

Alternatives

• Manual visual field tests.
• Other imaging tests like OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) or MRI for more detailed analysis.
• Each alternative has varying benefits: manual tests are less high-tech but useful in small clinics, while imaging tests provide additional detail but are more expensive.

Patient Experience

• You might feel some fatigue in your eyes during the test due to concentration.
• Minimal discomfort is expected.
• Your provider will offer guidance to help you stay comfortable throughout the procedure.
• Any discomfort can be managed with brief breaks or a slower testing pace.

Overall, undergoing a visual field assessment with concurrent real-time data analysis and remote surveillance is a comprehensive and advanced approach to managing and monitoring your visual health.