Optic function monitoring process and apparatus

摘要

A method and apparatus for monitoring optic function is provided. The apparatus and method relies on two principle modes of measuring the function of the optic nerve, namely, monitoring VEPs for neural function, and monitoring at least one additional parameter of optic function such as intraocular pressure, blood flow or location of the eye to provide a multi-variable optic function monitor. The method and apparatus is proposed for the use to diagnose and potentially prevent the incidence of POVL and anaesthesia awareness in patients during medical procedures.

主权项

1. A method of monitoring optic function comprising:
providing at least one sensor and at least one visual evoked potential stimulator; disposing the at least one sensor and at least one visual evoked potential stimulator in stimulating relation with at least one eye of a patient, and the at least one sensor in monitoring relation with the patient; activating the stimulator to stimulate at least two portions of the at least one eye selected from the group consisting of the optic nerve, optic chiasma and the optic cortex to produce signals, said signals forming a visual evoked potential, the visual evoked potential being characterized by a waveform; collecting the waveform of the visual evoked potential in the at least one sensor; providing a data processor in signal communication with the at least one sensor to collect the waveform from the at least one sensor; and processing the measured waveform in the data processor such that changes in the waveform of the visual evoked potential over time are monitored for an adverse change in optic function to provide a real-time gauge of the health of the optic nerve of the patient, wherein the processing includes an analysis of at least the temporal interval (TL1) between the onset of stimulation (t0) and the absolute magnitude of the second measured maximum visual evoked potential (EVP2) after stimulation, and at least one aspect of the waveform of EVP2 selected from the group consisting of the vertical distance (P2) between the maximum value of the upslope of EVP2 to the nadir (N3) of the EVP2, the peak first time-derivative of EVP2, the mean slope of EVP2, and combinations thereof.