Do You Need Regular Visual Field Tests After Eye Surgery?

Is visual field testing required to be performed continuously?

Hello, doctor.
My younger sister had strabismus surgery at the age of 21.
At that time, the attending physician discovered that she had a tendency for elevated intraocular pressure before the surgery and was concerned about glaucoma.
Therefore, a visual field test was arranged six months after the surgery, and the doctor reported no issues.
Subsequently, she visited other ophthalmology clinics where her intraocular pressure was still found to be elevated.
Several doctors used a green light flashlight to examine her eyes and stated that since the previous visual field test showed no problems, her eyes should be fine.
I would like to ask, given that several years have passed since the last visual field test and she does not experience any particular discomfort in her eyes, is it necessary to repeat the visual field test to confirm the health of the optic nerve? Is the visual field test covered by health insurance? Thank you for your clarification!

KH, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/01/07

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

It is recommended that you continue to have regular follow-up appointments to monitor your intraocular pressure.
Additionally, it may be beneficial to measure your corneal thickness to determine if your cornea is thicker than average.
If this is the case, it is normal for your intraocular pressure to be higher than that of the general population and not considered abnormal.
Visual field testing is covered by health insurance.

Reply Date: 2019/01/07

More Info

After undergoing eye surgery, particularly for conditions like strabismus or any surgery that may affect the optic nerve or overall eye health, it is important to consider regular follow-up examinations, including visual field tests. These tests are crucial for monitoring the health of the optic nerve and detecting any potential issues, such as glaucoma, which can lead to irreversible vision loss if not addressed promptly.

In your case, since you have a history of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and previous concerns regarding glaucoma, it is advisable to continue with regular visual field tests, even if you do not currently experience any discomfort or visual disturbances. Elevated IOP can be a risk factor for glaucoma, and while your previous visual field tests showed no issues, the condition can develop over time. Regular monitoring allows for early detection of any changes in your vision or optic nerve health, which is essential for timely intervention.

The frequency of these tests can vary based on individual risk factors and the recommendations of your eye care provider. Given that several years have passed since your last visual field test, it would be prudent to schedule another one, especially considering your history of elevated IOP. Your eye care provider can assess your current risk and determine the appropriate schedule for follow-up tests.

Regarding insurance coverage, visual field tests are generally covered by health insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid, but this can vary based on specific plans and the medical necessity of the test. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage details for visual field tests, especially in the context of your previous eye surgery and ongoing monitoring for glaucoma.

In summary, regular visual field tests are important for monitoring eye health, particularly in individuals with a history of elevated IOP or other risk factors for glaucoma. Given your medical history, it is recommended to have these tests periodically, even if you feel fine. Always consult with your eye care provider for personalized advice and to determine the best course of action for your eye health.

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