Incidence of visual impairment after stroke
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Incidence and prevalence of visual impairment after stroke
IRAS ID
150590
Contact name
Fiona Rowe
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Liverpool
Research summary
The purpose is to determine prevalence of visual impairment by systematically evaluating all (consecutive admissions) stroke survivors within three geographically separate stroke units using validated orthoptic measures. Three distinct units (hyper-acute stroke units plus district general stroke unit) will enable representation to be drawn from different geographical areas with different demographics to ensure as representative a sample of stroke survivors as possible.
We will determine the prevalence of those with eye disorders in which visual symptoms are expected but absent. We will look for ocular compensation mechanisms that may explain lack of symptoms before determining a neurological basis for lack of symptoms. Concurrently we will determine the prevalence of those with visual symptoms as it is this group of individuals that will require targeted intervention to alleviate symptoms and reduce impact of the visual disability.
Secondly, the natural history and long-term outcome for visual impairment due to stroke will be determined by longitudinal follow-up of stroke survivors with objective diagnosis of visual impairment. By following these patients over a period of time it will be determined how many patients only require short-term management because of natural resolution of the eye deficit, and which require long-term management because of persistence of deficits and resultant visual symptoms. This will guide recommendations for healthcare resources and commissioning of such services.
We will conduct a prospective survey of stroke survivors as they are identified during their acute stage of stroke and subsequently followed throughout their visual follow-up appointments.REC name
North West - Haydock Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/NW/0166
Date of REC Opinion
13 Mar 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion