Visual Field
OVERVIEW
The visual field is used to test and monitor peripheral vision. It gives the doctor very important information about the neurological function of the retina, optic nerve, and brain. This test is usually ordered to monitor certain eye diseases such as glaucoma, and also as a screening test prior to surgery.
Visual
field
tests
come
in
different
forms,
but
most
have
a
white
bowl
with
a
small
fixation
light
in
the
center. The
most
sophisticated
ones
are computerized.
After
your
pupils
have
been
dilated,
you
will
be
comfortably
seated
in
front
of
the
instrument. The
trick
to
the
test
is
to
stare
straight
ahead
as
lights
flash
in
the
periphery. A
button
is
available
to
press
each
time
a
light
appears. A
technician
is
available
throughout
the
test
should
you
have
a
question
or
need
to
pause
for
a
break.
Afterward, the computer analyzes the data and prints a chart of the results. Your visual field results are organized in your record so that your doctor can monitor your progress.
St. Luke's Cataract & Laser
Institute provides this on-line information for educational and
communication purposes only and it should not be construed as
personal medical advice. Information published on this St.
Luke's website is not intended to replace, supplant, or augment a
consultation with an eye care professional regarding the
viewer/user's own medical care. St. Luke's disclaims any and
all liability for injury or other damages that could result from use
of the information obtained from this site.