P.020 A novel scale for describing visual outcomes in patients following resection of lesions affecting the optic apparatus – Unified Visual Function Scale

Abstract

Background: Historically, description of patient visual acuity and visual field changes following intracranial procedures has been very rudimentary. Clinicians and researchers have relied on the use of vague descriptions like “improved”, “worsened”, and “unchanged” to describe outcomes following resections of tumours affecting the optic apparatus, which are difficult to quantify in a clinical setting. Methods: We present a novel way to describe a patient’s visual function as a combination of visual acuity and visual field assessment that is simple to use and can be used by surgeons, and researchers to gauge visual outcomes following tumour resection. Results: With our scale we were able to capture the overall visual change while being sensitive enough to define the overall quantity of improvement or worsening quantitatively, using categories that are clinically relevant and understandable. Conclusions: The implementation of pre- and post- operative assessment provides clinically relevant information for surgeons and is robust for routine use.