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Vision Rehabilitation with Biofeedback Training
Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology
Short Title: Can J Ophthalmol
Format: Journal Article
Publication Date: 2018/06//
Pages: e83 - e84
Sources ID: 33831
Visibility: Public (group default)
Abstract: (Show)
One of the important topics in modern low vision rehabilitation is the concept of a preferred retinal locus (PRL) assuming the fixation aspect of macular function after central vision loss.1 Recent research has showed, however, that in about 25% of cases, the PRL developed on an “unfavorable” retinal area and hence is useless.2 Biofeedback training (BT) provides an effective method for PRL rehabilitation using microperimetry instruments.3 The procedure is staged into 2 parts. An initial microperimetry examination determines the location of the retinal area with highest retinal sensitivity. The retinal area with less eccentricity and closest to the vertical meridian is potentially the best candidate for creating a new trained retinal locus (TRL). The second part of the method consists of training attentive behaviour, eye movement toward the TRL, and fixation on the TRL by using BT based on auditory stimuli and under direct visual scrutiny of the trained retinal fixation locus by the trainer. Once fixation on TRL is attained, the patient is asked to maintain the fixation for a certain period of time. The procedure is repeated a few times during a training session, and the patient is required to remember the eye manoeuvre performed and use it at home during reading sessions. Despite the fact that BT is practiced worldwide with increased popularity and in patients with various pathologies, there is no consensus on optimal methodology and indications for this new therapy. The everyday case treated with BT presented in this paper gives us an opportunity to discuss briefly the intricacies, problems, and possible solutions that we face with this new therapy.