Simulating Visual Field Tests From Structural Scans
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current visual field tests for eye diseases like glaucoma are unreliable due to instrument variability and patient compliance issues, making it difficult to track disease progression across different clinicians and settings.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based system processes eye imaging data to simulate visual field test results independently of the VFT configuration, using a structure-to-function estimator and decoders to generate accurate, instrument-independent visual field test reports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional visual field tests are performed using different instruments and configurations, then functional assessment data can be collected, but the results vary due to instrument variability and patient compliance issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of visual field test results by generating synthetic VFT data from structural OCT measurements. Instead of performing actual VFTs with different instruments, the system computes what the VFT results would be based on the structural damage patterns observed in OCT scans, eliminating instrument variability while preserving the functional assessment capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical measurement system of traditional visual field testers with a computational model. The system uses machine learning algorithms to translate structural imaging data into functional test results, substituting physical instrument measurements with mathematical transformations of structural data
2Measurement precision
If multiple visual field test configurations are used across different clinics, then patient monitoring can be performed, but comparing results becomes difficult due to lack of standardization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal system where a single structural OCT instrument can generate multiple types of functional assessment data through computational modeling. The same OCT device serves both structural imaging and functional assessment purposes, eliminating the need for separate VFT instruments while maintaining measurement precision across different clinics
3Reliability
If traditional visual field tests are administered to patients with severe damage, then functional loss can be assessed, but patients cannot comply with the testing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs structural assessment first using OCT imaging, then uses the structural data to compute functional test results. By obtaining structural measurements before attempting functional testing, the system can accurately assess functional loss in patients who would otherwise be unable to comply with traditional VFT requirements
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the invention include a computer implemented method for simulating visual field test results from structural scans, the method includes processing eye image data to extract visual functioning related features. Additionally, generating a representation of a visual function of the eye that is independent of a visual field test (VFT) configuration. Then generating a simulated VFT configuration specific test result based at least in part on the representation.