"Prospective Study of Traumatic Optic Neuropathy among Active Military and Veterans: An Underestimated Pattern of Prevalence"

Abstract

A prospective study for traumatic optic neuropathy has been performed to review and revise management proto col for active military personnel and veterans who have sustained either traumatic brain injury (TBI) or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI aka head concussions). A new protocol for visual field testing to include both kinetic and static testing was utilized to uncover occult cases of traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) either from traumatic brain injury or from mild head concussions as well as confirm suspected cases of TBI and/or mTBI. Furthermore, we have identified that military parachute jumpers (paratroopers) represent a high-risk group for undiagnosed mild TBI and traumatic optic neuropathy. We have urged that collaboration and development of safer helmet design would help reduce and maybe prevent further TBI, mTBI, and traumatic optic neuropathy for the military personnel.