The impact of binocular vision disorders on 3D display viewing

Abstract

AbstractPurpose Recent advances in display technology have led to 3D display viewing becoming a commonplace activity. This exciting development has a number of implications for the vision science community. From a scientific point of view 3D displays allow us the opportunity to develop new types of tests to examine binocular function, while clinically a number of issues arise relating to visual symptoms and treatment.Methods Here we review the range of methods employed to create a 3D viewing environment and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these technologies from a binocular vision perspective.Results We will summarise the recent research findings relating to the influence of 3D viewing on visual measures such as the AC/A and CA/C ratio and discuss how these changes may induce visual symptoms in certain patient groups. The impact of 3D viewing upon the visual system during the earlier stages of visual development will also be considered.Conclusion Findings suggest that in the mature visual system 3D display technology may induce visual symptoms in patients with normally insignificant binocular anomalies. In the immature binocular vision system, consideration should be given to the possibility of developmental problems arising from prolonged 3D display viewing. However, continued advances in 3D display technology also offer great potential for the assessment and restoration of binocular vision in patients with binocular vision anomalies such as amblyopia and strabismus.