Telemonitoring Tools for Glaucoma Patients: A Systematic Review of Current Trends and Applications.

Journal: Journal of clinical medicine
Published Date:

Abstract

: In 2010, approximately 60.5 million people were affected by glaucoma, making it the leading cause of permanent vision impairment globally. With the rise of telehealth tools and technological advancements in glaucoma care, this review aims to provide an up-to-date analysis regarding remote monitoring systems in glaucoma management. : A systematic literature search (in compliance with PRISMA guidelines) was conducted across six databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library) and one grey literature source (Google Scholar), covering the period from 2000 to 2024. Relevant studies meeting predefined inclusion criteria were identified and analyzed. : The search identified 21 eligible studies focusing on various glaucoma telemonitoring tools. Several studies demonstrated the potential for continuous remote intraocular pressure (IOP) monitoring and highlighted the effectiveness of home-based visual field-testing technologies (e.g., Melbourne Rapid Fields, Eyecatcher, and VF-Home), which showed results closely matching in-clinic tests. All 21 studies underwent risk of bias assessment with appropriate tools based on study design, and none showed a high overall risk of bias, indicating robust methodology. : Glaucoma telemonitoring tools are feasible and cost-effective, helping to reduce patient travel and waiting times and improving patient satisfaction. However, periodic in-person examinations remain necessary to optimally monitor disease progression and adjust treatments. Future directions should focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and the development of advanced algorithms (including artificial intelligence) to further enhance patient outcomes in teleglaucoma care.

Authors

  • Jeniffer Jesus
    Unidade Local de Saúde Entre o Douro e Vouga, 4520-211 Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal.
  • Catarina Aguiar
    Unidade Local de Saúde Entre o Douro e Vouga, 4520-211 Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal.
  • Dália Meira
    Unidade Local de Saúde Gaia e Espinho, 4405-678 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal.
  • Ignacio Rodriguez-Una
    Instituto Oftalmológico Fernández-Vega, 33012 Oviedo, Spain.
  • João M Beirão
    Unidade Local de Saúde de Santo António, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal.

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