Thank you for considering participating in one of the ocular imaging studies in the AOIP. We are committed to the development and application of translational ocular imaging tools to improve detection, diagnosis, and management of eye disease. The participation of research volunteers is one of the most important aspects of our research.
Upon arrival at the Eye Institute, one of our staff members will review the consent forms that are necessary to proceed with the research study. We will explain all of the imaging tests being performed and review the risks and benefits associated with the research. You will receive a copy of your signed consent forms for your records and given as much time as you need to ask any questions you may have about the research.
Listed below are brief descriptions of some of the tests that may be done during your research visit.
Color Vision
A variety of tests may be used to test your color vision. These include tests where we ask you to arrange a series of caps according to their color, to identify colored shapes on a gray background, or to match one color with a mixture of two other colors. Depending on the tests we do, these tests could take anywhere from 5 minutes to 1 hour to complete.
Eye Dilation
For many of the imaging tests, we need to dilate your eye. This involves the use of eye drops (Phenylephrine HCL and Tropicamide) similar to those used during a regular eye exam. These drops will make your pupil large and will make it difficult to read. We may dilate one or both of your eyes, and the dilation will usually wear off in a few hours. After dilation of your eye, we may have your eyes examined by an ophthalmologist to evaluate the overall health of your eye.
Eye Measurements
We use a machine called the Zeiss IOL Master to measure the length of your eye as well as the curvature of your cornea, providing a set of measurements that we use to determine the magnification of the images of your retina. This test takes approximately five minutes.
Genetic Test
In some cases, a phlebotomist will take a blood sample, which we then send to a genetic testing lab for analysis.
Visual Function
A variety of tests may be used to assess how well your retina is functioning. We can measure how well you see by having you look at an eye chart on a wall, similar to tests you may have had during a regular eye exam. This test can take up to 30 minutes to complete. Another type of test involves looking into a machine and pressing a button whenever you see a spot of light, allowing us to determine your visual field sensitivity. This test can take up to 30 minutes to complete. Finally, we can use the electroretinogram to examine the electrical activity of your retina. For this test, we will tape some electrodes to your forehead and cheek, and place either a contact lens or nylon thread on your lower eyelid. We will have you sit in a dark room for 30 minutes before doing the test, which involves looking into a machine as various lights (different colors and different brightness) are flashed into your eye. We use a computer to record the activity of your retina, which provides a very sensitive measure of how well it is working.
Adaptive Optics Retinal Imaging
The adaptive optics imaging technology is part of what makes our imaging program truly unique. The imaging session takes place in a dark room with usually two to three scientists or physicians in the room. You will be asked to either place your chin on a chin rest or to make a dental impression with some dental putty, as we need to keep your head steady during the imaging session. Most imaging is done using dim red light, though we may also use different wavelengths (colors) of light to help us see different parts of your retina better. This imaging session usually takes about an hour, though you are able to take breaks as needed.
Clinical Retinal Imaging
We may use a number of different pieces of equipment to image your retina. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) allows us to look at the different layers of your retina, providing a sensitive tool to examine the health of your retina. We will also use standard fundus photography, which allows us to see the large blood vessels and optic disc. We may use different wavelengths (colors) of light to image your eye, and in some cases may have you ingest a fluorescent dye to allow us to visualize your blood vessels with greater detail. Depending on the number of images we take, these tests could take between 15-30 minutes to obtain.
General Research Visit Notes
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This visit will take approximately three to four hours to complete.
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Please note: this research visit does not provide you with an updated vision prescription or corrective lenses.
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If you do wear contact lenses, please do not wear them for at least 2 days prior to your imaging appointment.
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You must have an appointment to participate in research.
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If you have any questions about the tests performed as part of our research contact Phyllis Summerfelt or Mara Goldberg at (414) 955-AOIP (2647).