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  1. 50 Years Supporting Paediatric Vision Testing Worldwide Since 1975

Binocular Vision Conditions

How Stereotests Help Diagnose, Manage, and Improve Stereopsis  Conditions

Stereotests play a crucial role in the assessment and management of stereovision disorders, particularly in children with conditions such as strabismus (eye misalignment) and amblyopia (also known as 'lazy eye', where one eye is unable to see fine depth detail despite optical correction). These conditions can interfere with the brain’s ability to fuse images from both eyes, leading to reduced or absent depth perception.

Diagnosing Stereovision Deficiencies

Optometrists, orthoptists, and ophthalmologists use stereotests to detect impaired or absent stereopsis, which is often one of the first indicators of binocular vision problems. The Frisby Stereotest, for example, allows professionals to assess depth perception in a natural, real-depth format without the need for special glasses, making it ideal for young children and non-verbal patients. Early diagnosis is key because intervention is most effective during early childhood, while the visual system is still developing.

Managing and Monitoring Progress

Once a diagnosis is made, stereotests provide a benchmark for stereovision ability and are used to track progress over time. If a child undergoes treatment—such as patching therapy (covering the stronger eye to encourage the weaker one to work harder), vision therapy, or corrective lenses with prisms—stereotests help professionals measure improvements in depth perception. By comparing results over successive appointments, eye care professionals can determine whether treatment is working or if adjustments are needed.

Improving Stereopsis Through Targeted Treatment

Emerging research on neuroplasticity suggests that, with appropriate intervention, stereopsis can be strengthened or regained, even after the end of the critical period of the first 6-9 months. Common treatments that may enhance stereovision include:

  • Patching therapy – Encouraging the weaker eye to engage and develop stronger neural connections.
  • Vision therapy – A series of targeted exercises designed to improve eye coordination and binocular function.
  • Prism lenses – Used to realign the images seen by each eye, promoting better fusion and depth perception.
  • Surgical correction (for strabismus) – In cases of severe misalignment, surgery may be required to realign the eyes, improving their ability to work together.

By incorporating stereotests into routine assessments, optometrists, orthoptists, and ophthalmologists can make informed decisions about patient care, ensuring the best possible outcomes for children at risk of long-term vision impairment.