Electroretinography Using Nonsedated Handheld Electroretinogram through Closed Eyelids

Abstract

Purpose : To determine if readable electroretinography (ERG) responses can be obtained in normal adults through closed eyelids using a handheld device (RetEval). RetEval ERG system is a new device that allows ERG to be performed in awake patients using skin electrodes. However, it is unknown if readable ERG responses can be recorded through closed eyelids using this device.

Methods : Full field ERG using skin electrodes was used to record flicker and bright flash ERG responses in 40 eyes of 20 adult volunteers (age range 24-53 years). Stimulus intensity was increased to 30cd.s/m². Flicker ERG was obtained under photopic conditions while bright flash ERG was performed under scotopic conditions.

Results : Readable flicker amplitude and implicit time responses were obtained in all eyes. Readable bright flash amplitude and implicit time responses were obtained in 72.5% of eyes.

Conclusions : Readable and accurate electroretinography responses can be obtained through closed eyelids using a handheld device. Full field ERG responses elicited by increased stimulus intensity and measured with skin electrodes may be very useful in the following circumstances: 1) patients with opaque media 2) patients, such as children, who have difficulty maintaining open eyes for testing.

This is a 2020 ARVO Annual Meeting abstract.