[Low Vision Enhancement System (LVES). Initial clinical experiences with a new kind of optoelectronic rehabilitation system].

BACKGROUND

The Low-Vision-Enhancement-System (LVES) is the first binocular optoelectronic rehabilitation device with variable focus distance.

METHOD

LVES was attempted on 25 patients who were not adequately treatable with classic rehabilitation devices. Using the new device, short-distance vision as well as the ability to read and write were tested.

RESULTS

In six patients, a significant improvement was achieved using LVES. In these patients, short-distance vision as measured by LVES varied from 0.63 to 1.0. All succeeded in reading fluently, and five patients, in writing. Of these patients, five suffered from large central scotomas due to macular disease, and one female patient, from post-traumatic optic nerve atrophy. In 10 patients, near-sighted vision could be improved although the ability to read and write could not be restored, while nine patients did not show any benefit. In the latter group, were four patients with retinopathia pigmentosa, who complained of the further reduction in visual field due to the system.

CONCLUSION

LVES is an additional device for the rehabilitation of low-vision patients which is especially useful in cases of macular diseases.