Comparing Vision Tests in a Virtual Reality Headset to Existing Analogues

The purpose of this study is to compare the results of vision tests that are algorithmically derived and delivered through a virtual reality headset with those delivered through the existing technology standards (eg. Humphrey for field tests). Tests that the researchers will be conducting include vision field perimetry, Amsler, acuity chart, contrast- sensitivity and currently used office tests.

Virtual reality (VR) constructs a 3-D reality right in a headset and the researchers are studying with what degree of accuracy it can be use to recreate vision tests that are used by eye doctors to screen and diagnose patients. VR provides advantages that could be used to improve eye care once the technology is tested and compared to the currently used vision tests - such as limiting the costs, duration and tedium associated with existing forms of vision screening tests. By doing so, the researchers hope to expand access to eye care by lowering the cost burden associated with vision tests. In this study, the research team will have subjects go through the VR versions of the test that are used in practice, and analyze their results in comparison to one another. After informed consent is obtained, the research team will collect subject demographic information (date of birth, gender, ethnicity, race) and clinically relevant medical history. Afterward, the research team will proceed to the virtual reality tests: vision field perimetry, Amsler, Snellen chart, contrast- sensitivity and currently used office tests. The participants will undergo all the tests, VR and non-VR, which will be delivered in a randomized order. The entire sequence will last 30 minutes to one hour for a single test. The VR component will last about 5 minutes, this being the only addition to the scheduled vision tests. The sequence of VR / non VR testing will be randomized. Based on the previous studies that compared Humphrey MATRIX visual field and Swedish Interactive algorithm, the effect size is determined to be at least 30 subjects, and the goal is to reach N=1,000 participants.