Use of teleoptometry to evaluate acceptability of rigid gas-permeable contact lens fits.
BACKGROUND
Teleoptometry involves the transmission of digitized optometric information from a remote site for analysis by an expert. This project assessed computer compression of video data showing contact lens fitting relationships and the transmission of these data to a specialist for evaluation


METHODS
Fifty-five sets of video clips showing dynamic fluorescein patterns of rigid gas-permeable lens fits, topographic corneal maps, and basic information on lens parameters were evaluated-live and again after digitization and electronic compression-by a contact lens specialist. The evaluator was asked to determine whether lens fit was acceptable and, if not, how the lens parameters should be changed.


RESULTS
Comparison of lens evaluations made live versus compressed showed agreement on fit acceptability for approximately 80% of the subject/lens combinations. When the evaluator concluded for both presentations that the lens was unacceptable, the same change in lens parameters was recommended 67% of the time.


CONCLUSIONS
Agreement for the majority of live and compressed video observations suggests that teleoptometric consultation on contact lens fitting is feasible. When technology advances to the point at which large files can be sent quickly via the Internet, it is likely the practice of transmitting video clips and other information to obtain fitting assistance will become commonplace.
Smythe
J
J
Pacific University, College of Optometry, Forest Grove, Oregon 97116, USA.
Yolton
R L
RL
Leroy
A
A
Achong
R
R
Caroline
P
P
Van Nurden
M
M
Yolton
D
D
D000328:Adult; D001251:Astigmatism / Q000534:rehabilitation; D003261:Contact Lenses; D005740:Gases / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009907:Optometry / Q000379:methods*; D010539:Permeability; D017755:Prosthesis Fitting; D019114:Remote Consultation; D015203:Reproducibility of Results
D005740:Gases