To Design and Investigate the Effectiveness of a Gaze Stabilization Application on Patients with Impaired Visual Vestibulo-ocular Reflex

Abstract

Purpose: Vestibulo-ocular Reflex is the main vision stabilizing system during rapid head movements. In keeping the eyes still during head motion which is referred to as the gaze stability, the VOR has a censorious role. Loss of this vestibular function produces instability of gaze which worsens on motion and activity. Vestibular rehabilitation is one of the treatment modalities for patients with vestibular insufficiency. These exercises include gaze stability, central programming and balance exercise. Here this study is an instrument-based study and this device focuses on visually tracking, using smooth pursuit eye movements on a moving object. It shall not only provide a combined gaze stability adaptive exercise but it will also provide various progressions and biofeedback to the patients. Methods: An interventional study, with a sum of 30 participants having significant vestibular hypofunction or dysfunction who voluntarily participated in the study. It was a comparative study and it took place in Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences deemed to be University, Karad city in Maharashtra, India. 6 months was the total time span required to complete this trial. Consecutive sampling with random allocation was done. Those fulfilling the inclusion criteria were recruited and divided into two groups: control and interventional. Results and Conclusion: Vestibular dysfunction significantly affected the quality of life and lead to serious disability. Virtual mode of rehabilitation training by tracking the object with the eye, built interest and motivated the patient to regularly exercise as well as to perform smooth eye movements with lower range of saccades.