Enhancing Binocular Vision Assessment in Clinical Practice
Binocular vision plays a fundamental role in our perception of depth, coordination, and visual comfort. But binocular vision dysfunction often goes under-diagnosed, particularly in paediatric populations or elderly patients where symptoms may be subtle or misattributed. As a clinician, incorporating systematic binocular testing can yield important diagnostic insights, inform treatment plans, and support better patient outcomes.
Understanding Binocular Vision Testing
A comprehensive binocular evaluation involves more than assessing acuity or alignment. It includes specific tests for vergence, accommodation, stereopsis, and suppression. Tests such as the Frisby Stereotest—which presents real-depth stimuli without requiring special glasses — can be especially useful in assessing stereopsis in pre-verbal children, neurodiverse individuals, and elderly patients.
Why Real-Depth Tests Matter
Unlike tests reliant on stereo glasses or computer screens, real-depth tests like the Frisby avoid monocular clues (following correct administering procedure) and allow for a more naturalistic and reliable assessment, where eye movements also can be tracked.
This can be important for:
- Identifying amblyopia and strabismus early
- Diagnosing binocular vision dysfunction in patients presenting with headaches, eyestrain or blurred vision
- Monitoring progress in vision therapy or post-surgical outcomes
Clinical Applications
Binocular testing can be incorporated as an easy and quick routine part of:
- School vision screenings
- Post-concussion and ABI assessments
- Pre- and post-operative evaluations in strabismus management
- Routine elderly eye exams, to detect visual decline that may impact mobility or independence, to assist with care planning
Are you making the most of binocular vision testing in your Clinic? Incorporating the Frisby Stereotest can support early diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and patient education.
