[Computer program controlled perimetry, its advantages and disadvantages].

Abstract

Following a short historical introduction and a description of basic methods of perimetry, computerized perimetry is described (taking the Octopus computerized perimeter as an example). The hardware-software concept and the three parts of the automatic perimeter, i.e., the controller, the measuring section, and the program section, are described. The technique of threshold determination, the programs (including the new Octopus programs), and the modes of representation of the results are explained. It is shown how one tries top take subjective criteria of the patient, such as attention, intelligence, and ability to concentrate into account during the measurements. The advantages and disadvantages of computerized perimetry are pointed out. It is emphasized that on average the range of scatter of measurements made with the automatic perimeter is smaller than when traditional manual methods are employed. In addition to the accuracy (scatter), the reproducibility (correlation) of the results is also better. Pathologic visual field defects are detected in greater detail and earlier by the automatic static perimeter than by manual perimetry. This applies in particular to early stages of retrobulbar neuritis and glaucoma.