This article is more than 5 years old. Information may no longer be current.
Survey finds patient dissatisfaction with short-wavelength automated perimetry
Ophthalmology. 2008;115(12):2127-2131.
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts
Short-wavelength automated perimetry may give clinicians an idea about the visual function of glaucoma patients, but according to a survey of patients, many are not happy about having to undergo the diagnostic test.
When 101 patients with high-risk ocular hypertension or early glaucoma were asked to rank seven diagnostic tests commonly used in glaucoma management, short-wavelength automated perimetry scored significantly worse than all other tests.
Respondents in the survey ranked Goldmann applanation tonometry for IOP measurement as the most favorable test. In descending order of favorability, the remaining tests were: confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy using a Heidelberg Retina Tomograph; frequency doubling technology perimetry; multifocal visual evoked potential; optic nerve photography; and standard automated perimetry.
Although the expected clinical utility may ultimately decide the application of a diagnostic test, the researchers said patient satisfaction with diagnostic tests may influence willingness to return to the ophthalmologists for further follow-up. As well, knowing the satisfaction with diagnostic protocols may influence physician counseling and reinforcement of the utility of tests considered unfavorable.