WHAT IS AN AUTOMATED FIELD TEST?
Your visual field is everything that you see. An Automated Visual Field test evaluates your vision straight ahead (central) as well as your vision to the side (peripheral). This test is important in the diagnosis of many eye disorders, especially glaucoma. Glaucoma is an eye disease usually associated with increased pressure within the eye which can cause a slow, painless, and permanent loss of vision. During this test, the technician will use computerized instruments to map out your visual field. Your pupils will not be dilated for this test. This test takes approximately 10-20 minutes per eye. An Automated Visual Field Test is also referred to as "Perimetry.
Picture 1: Zeiss Humprey 850 Field of View
DURING THE TEST
Your eyes will not be dilated. You will not feel any discomfort during this test. Nothing touches your eye. You will be asked to sit facing a bowl-shaped instrument and to respond by pushing a button in your hand, whenever you see a light appear within the bowl. During this test, one eye will be patched while the other eye is being tested. Testing of each eye takes approximately 10-20 minutes depending on which type of Visual Field test the doctor has ordered (there are several variations). The test is carried out at a comfortable rate of speed and adjusted as necessary.
Picture 2: Visual Field Test
AFTER THE TEST
You may drive home after this test as your eyes will not be dilated. Your ophthalmologist (medical eye doctor) will review the results and discuss them with you. Your doctor may or may not request a follow-up visit associated with this test.
Picture 3: Visual Field Test
