Accurate and patient-friendly measurement of binocular visual function using a 3D smartphone (360G-Wellcome-102565_Z_13_Z)

Stereo vision, often called 3D vision, is the ability to use both eyes together to see depth. Clinicians use specialised vision tests, called stereotests, to measure patients’ 3D vision in disorders like squint. This helps them monitor progress, assess whether treatment is helping, and can guide decisions like when to operate.However, existing stereotests are not very reliable. Young children may not understand the test or be willing to cooperate, e.g. by wearing 3D glasses. This limits the usefulness of current stereotests. Recently, the first glasses-free 3D tablet computers have come on the market. A team led by Dr Jenny Read at Newcastle University wants to use these to produce a better stereotest. For children, the stereotest will be embedded in a fun, colourful game. Patients will give their answers by touching the screen. The device will use these responses to interactively adapt the test for that particular patient, customising it for each individual. The device will monitor patients while they do the test and automatically correct for any changes in viewing distance. As a result, it will provide clinicians with more accurate data on 3D vision, especially in small children. This will help healthcare professionals to track the progress of treatment and make the best clinical decisions.