Low-Intensity Laser Light Projection for Improved Reading Abilities in Low-Vision Patients

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of a new laser imaging device that projects images onto functioning macular areas, to improve visual acuity (VA) in low-vision patients with macular diseases. Methods: An interventional case series of consecutive patients with low vision in their right eyes (RE). RE VA was measured by showing the patients digits of various standard sizes and measuring their best-corrected VA (BCVA). Then, using the I.C.INSIDE device to project the same standard digits onto functioning macular areas. Patient’s ability to recognize the digits with the I.C.INSIDE device was correlated with patient’s performance using telescopic low-vision aids. The main outcome measure was change in VA with the different visual aids. Results: Eleven patients (6 males and 5 females) with an average age of 75 ± 6.7 years and low vision in their RE due to macular diseases were included in the study. Baseline BCVA was 1.554 ± 0.50 logMAR. Low-vision aids improved mean VA in 10 patients to 0.64 ± 0.40 logMAR (p < .0001), further improvement was noticed in 8 patients to 0.35 ± 0.16 logMAR (p < .0001) using the laser device, but, three patients did not recognize any digit using the laser device. Conclusions: The I.C.INSIDE device significantly improved baseline VA in low-vision patients with macular diseases, using extra-foveal fixation.