VA TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT PROGRAM
PROJECT REPORT – PATIENT SUMMARY
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Visual Field Testing in VA Compensation and Pension Examinations

In this report:

• What is the visual field?
• What is visual field testing?
• How is the visual field tested?
• Why was the VA interested in visual field testing?
• How did the VA investigate this topic?
• What did the VA find?
• Can the results of visual field testing be used to determine disability and handicap?
• How will this report impact patient care?
• Websites with more information on this topic

What is the visual field?
The visual field is all the space that one eye can see at any given instant.

What is visual field testing?
Visual field testing is a way to measure how well each eye sees. This test is often done if there is a question about your vision.

How is the visual field tested?
The visual field is tested using a machine called a perimeter. There are two types of perimeters, a manual device and an automated or computerized one. The manual device is called the Goldmann perimeter. The automated device is called the Humphrey Field Analyzer.

Why was the VA interested in visual field testing?
The VA wanted to know if one of these perimeters was more accurate and reliable in evaluating your vision. The VA also wanted to know if one of these perimeters could help determine if you have a disability or handicap and are eligible for benefits from the Veterans Benefit Administration.

How did the VA investigate this topic?
The VA reviewed the medical literature to determine which perimeter (the manual Goldmann perimeter or the automated Humphrey Field Analyzer) is best to use to evaluate the visual field of patients.

What did the VA find?
The VA found that both perimeters measure the visual field in a reliable and accurate way. In some situations the manual (Goldman) perimeter is more accurate or more comfortable for the patient, and in other situations the automated (Humphrey Field Analyzer) perimeter may be better to use. The VA concluded the health care professional measuring the visual field should determine which instrument is best to use for a particular patient.

Can the results of visual field testing be used to determine disability and handicap?
The VA concluded that visual field testing alone could not be used to evaluate disability and handicap. Other factors such as how the visual impairment affects the person's life should also contribute to the final decision.

How will this report impact patient care?
This report will help the VA improve visual field testing for veterans.

Websites with more information on this topic

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