Real-time Acoustic Biofeedback for Enhancing Fixation Stability: A Proof-of-concept Study to Improve Ophthalmic Imaging Diagnostic Quality
This study is testing a new way to help people with sight problems, including those with retinal conditions or geographic atrophy, to keep their eyes steady. This is important because steady eyes lead to clearer eye scans, which help doctors understand and treat eye conditions better. The study uses a special device that gives sound cues to guide eye movement. We want to see if this 'sound feedback' can improve eye focus in both healthy people and those with sight loss. We'll also be trying out different sound patterns to find the best ones, and checking if this method helps to get better quality eye images more quickly. Participants will focus on a target while their eye movements are recorded, and they’ll give feedback on their experience.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is exploring a new approach to help people with certain eye conditions, like retinal dystrophies (which affect the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye) and geographic atrophy (a type of macular degeneration that causes blind spots). When someone has central vision loss or blindness, it can be hard for them to keep their eyes steady. This 'wobbly' eye movement can make it difficult for doctors to take clear pictures of the eye, which are crucial for diagnosing and monitoring these conditions.
The main idea behind this research is to see if a special device using sounds can help people keep their eyes more stable. Imagine being able to hear a cue that guides your eye exactly where it needs to be. The study will test whether this 'acoustic feedback' improves eye steadiness in both volunteers with normal vision and those who struggle to focus their eyes. We'll also be figuring out the best types of sounds or patterns to use for this guidance, making sure it's as helpful as possible.
Ultimately, the hope is that by improving how steadily a person can look at a target, we can get much clearer and more reliable images of the eye. This could lead to better diagnosis and monitoring for people living with these challenging eye conditions, making a real difference in their care. The study is a 'proof-of-concept' which means we're checking if the basic idea works before moving on to larger studies.
Key takeaways
- Tests a new sound-based device to help steady eyes.
- Aims to get clearer eye scans for conditions causing vision loss.
- Compares sound guidance with traditional visual focusing.
- Involves focusing on a target in a dark room with eye tracking.
- Seeking feedback on comfort and effectiveness from participants.
- This is a 'proof-of-concept' study, checking if the idea works.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old. We're looking for two groups of people: healthy volunteers who have normal vision and no known eye or brain conditions, and patients who have been diagnosed with an eye condition that makes it hard for them to focus their eyes steadily.
It's important that you are able to hear sounds well, as this study relies on sound cues to help with eye focus. You also need to be able to understand what's being asked of you and agree to take part freely.
There are also some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you are under 18, cannot hear sounds, have certain other eye conditions like nystagmus (involuntary eye movements), or if there are problems with your eye that prevent us from tracking your eye movements, you won't be able to participate. We also need participants who can cooperate well during the eye tests and communicate their feedback.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Can you hear sounds well?
- Do you have good vision, or an existing eye diagnosis of fixation loss?
- Can you understand and agree to take part in the study?
- Are you able to cooperate during eye examinations?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be asked to come to a darkened room. Your task will be to focus on a target dot and try to keep your eyes steady for about 10 seconds at a time. We'll use a special camera with safe, near-infrared light to record how your eyes move. You'll do this in three different ways: sometimes just with the target to look at, sometimes with sound cues to help you, and sometimes with both the target and sound cues.
During and after these tasks, we'll ask you about how tired you feel and for your thoughts on which method was easiest or what could be improved. There are several sets of these tasks, and you'll give feedback on your tiredness in between them. The whole recording session will involve you completing questionnaires to tell us about your experience. This is a single visit study. We don't expect you to take any medication, and there's no long-term follow-up beyond this session. The researchers will be with you throughout the session to guide you.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- EKFZ Else Kroener Fresenius Center for Optogenetic Therapies, University Medical Center GoettingenVerified postcodeGöttingen, Germany
Common questions
What is 'fixation stability'?
Fixation stability is how well you can keep your eyes still and focused on one point without them moving around too much.
What are retinal dystrophies and geographic atrophy?
These are eye conditions that can cause central vision loss, making it harder to see details straight ahead.
Will this device give me back my vision?
No, this study is not about restoring vision. It's about helping to keep your eyes steady to improve how doctors get images of your eye, which can help them better understand and manage your condition.
What does 'acoustic real-time biofeedback' mean?
It means you'll hear sounds that change instantly based on how well you're keeping your eye focused. This sound feedback helps you adjust your eye position.
How long will I be in the study?
You will participate in a single recording session, which includes various tasks and feedback questionnaires. The researchers will guide you on the total time involved during your visit.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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