There must be a method to examine patients with nystagmus by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Therefore, a new device has been designed and manufactured to examine eye nystagmus, which is characterized by involuntary eye movements, usually horizontal. This movement may be fast (known as pendular nystagmus) or slow horizontal movement, often resulting from reduced central vision.
This device is used to help determine the required examinations for patients, with the possibility of providing appropriate treatment after assessment by an optometrist. The device is a modern mechanical–optical tool made from locally available materials (plastic materials), lightweight, and easy to use. It has a length of 230 cm and a thickness of 4 mm (2 mm components).
Problem Statement
There is a lack of suitable equipment to examine patients with nystagmus that can stabilize and help focus the eye on a fixed point. Thanks to this innovation, a device has been manufactured that helps relax the eye muscles for one minute, during which important examinations can be performed, including:
Measurement of visual acuity (VA).
Determination of strabismus type and location.
Intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement.
Pupillary reflex and acuity assessment.
When the eye muscles are relaxed using a blurring lens, eye movements are reduced, allowing accurate examination within a few minutes to identify visual defects.
Main Components of the Device
1) Blurring Lens (6)
A 20 mm diameter lens used to relax the ciliary muscles in cases of nystagmus. It acts as an occluder when placed in front of the left eye while examining the right eye (within less than one minute), especially when eye movements are minimal or nearly absent.
2) Pupillary Acuity Measurement Ruler (Plastic)
Used to measure the distance between the center of the first focal point and the second focal point in millimeters (mm). The patient is examined after eye stabilization using the blurring lens.
3) Visual Acuity Improvement Assessment Disc
A circular disc with multiple apertures (1 mm diameter, 17 pinholes), also suitable for children. It is used in functional refraction testing. It helps concentrate light rays and project them onto the retina, allowing assessment of visual acuity improvement.
Economic Feasibility
The restoration of vision and quality of life for patients, especially those with nystagmus, cannot be measured in monetary value. After providing a scientific method for examination and reducing involuntary horizontal eye movements, patients experience reduced diplopia and difficulty in reading. This helps them reintegrate into society as normal individuals after undergoing several therapeutic sessions.
A. Prof. Dr. Mundher Sameen Shukr
University of Al-Mustaqbal – The First and Leading Private University