Effect of specialized applications on the visual functions of amblyopic eye in Latvian children

The classical treatment option of amblyopia is occlusions of non-amblyopic eye. The newest methods involve specialized computer and phone games, applications that involve both eyes in visual processing during treatment as well as stimulate binocularity. The aim of the work was to assess the efficiency of specialized phone application 'Duovision' in the treatment of amblyopia in preschool-age children. There were 30 participants (5-8 years old): 16 participants had occlusion therapy; 14 participants played the specialized phone application Duovision (R). The visual acuity of amblyopic eye, as well as stereopsis was evaluated at near and far distances before the treatment, 2 and 4 months after the beginning of treatment. The results show statistically significant improvement in visual acuity and stereovision in both treatment groups after four months of therapy. The extent of improvement is similar in both groups. Specialized phone applications for amblyopia treatment may be recommended to patients from an age 3 when they are able to use a mobile phone, who want to improve their visual acuity in the amblyopic eye and are not willing to use occlusions. The only requirement for using specialized applications - patients need to have binocular single vision. In conclusion, the use of specialized phone applications is an alternative type of amblyopia treatment compared to occlusion therapy.