1 Laboratory of Experimental Ophthalmology,
² Dept. of Neuropsychology,
University of Groningen,
P.O. Box 30001,
9700 RB Groningen,
The Netherlands.

Purpose

Homonymous visual field losses can lead to severe limitations functionally as well as socially. In this research project we study the scanning behavior of hemianopic patients and, when necessary, try to help them to develop a more efficient scanning pattern.

Method

Our training procedure consists of three consecutive phases. Firstly we teach them to make regularly large and fast saccadic eye-movements into the blind hemifield. Secondly these compensatory eye-movements have to be applied in more complex and dynamic situations. Finally, the scanning pattern has to be implemented while driving a car during driving lessons. By using this training scheme, we hope to establish the development by the patient of a personal scanning-style, based on "our" principles. This training is preceded and followed by an extensive period of measurement and evaluation of scanning behavior.

Result

Some results from the different parts of the research are presented.