Recommended Changes to Standard of Care for Monitoring of Cortically Blind Fields

Abstract

Global incidence of stroke has risen 70% in the last 30 years, affecting approximately 25% of adults throughout the course of their lives. Up to 60% of stroke survivors will suffer visual impairments, which significantly reduce quality of life and independence. Despite the high prevalence, patients are hugely underserved by the medical and research communities. Clinical care is variable throughout the United States and United Kingdom, with only 57% of patients receiving visual field assessments and 61% stating their need for support has not been fully met. Additionally, unlike stroke survivors with motor or language deficits, those with vision loss are rarely offered visual rehabilitation. This is despite recent research into the efficacy of visual training and the propensity for the visual deficit to worsen in the absence of an intervention. This article reviews common gaps in patient care and proposes policy changes to increase awareness of the condition, foster clinical and scientific advances in treatment, and enhance patient outcomes.