September 26, 2006
Computer System Improves Vision in Cortical Blindness
Scientists from the University of Aberdeen have shown that a specialized computer system can enlarge the visual field in status post stroke patients. Cortical blindness is a result of a stroke's damage to the visual pathways in the brain, while the eye itself is completely intact.
A computer system that contains visual stimuli which flash on a screen was installed in the homes of 12 stroke sufferers with partial sight loss. Each patient was asked to repeatedly perform a series of tasks over a three-month period, which involved pressing buttons when they detected the flickering.
The scientists discovered that by the end of the process all 12 showed increased visual sensitivity within their blind field. The scientists believed that it would give hope to the thousands of patients who have suffered sight loss following brain damage and who are generally told that nothing can be done. The outcome of these exercises have already found that patients report that they can navigate more easily around their home or feel more confident when they are crossing the road.
This research reported in the Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences, has shown that a specialised computer system can enlarge the visual field in status post stroke patients. Cortical blindness is a result of a stroke's damage to the visual pathways in the brain, while the eye itself is completely intact. The researchers believe that the particular visual targets used in their device, optimally stimulate the surviving neuronal pathways which in turn encourage changes within the brain.
Typically, patients can get physiotherapy and speech therapy after brain damage so why not rehabilitation for the visual system.
Posted by rsk at September 26, 2006 11:52 PM