A personal computer-based method of stereo chronometry for measuring neuroretinal rim width: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
Quantifying neuroretinal rim width from optic disc photographs to study glaucomatous progression requires precise, reproducible measurements. We explored the use of a personal computer with three-dimensional capabilities to enhance measurement accuracy and repeatability.


METHODS
A simultaneous stereo retinal camera was used to serially photograph the optic discs often glaucomatous eyes with a mean interval of 18 months. The neuroretinal rims were qualitatively assessed as either stable (five) or narrowing (five). The images were measured using software written for an IBM compatible personal computer The measurements were compared from the earliest to the most recent image and the five narrowed rims were correctly identified.


RESULTS
This simple, low-cost method allowed both three-dimensional viewing and measurement of the optic disc rim from simultaneous stereo images.


CONCLUSIONS
This method is, potentially, more sensitive in identifying glaucomatous rim changes than conventional, subjective image comparison techniques.
Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Lions Eye Institute, Perth, Western Australia, Australia. cjbarry@cyllene.uwa.edu.au
C J
CJ
Barry
K
K
Yogesan
L
L
Jitskaia
W H
WH
Morgan
P H
PH
House
R H
RH
Eikelboom
D005901:Glaucoma / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D009898:Optic Disk / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D010781:Photography; D010865:Pilot Projects