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Neuro-ophthalmologists specialize in visual problems related to the nervous system, including loss of sight due to injury to the brain or the optic nerves which transmit visual signals from the eyes to the brain. Such injury may be caused by trauma, inflammation, strokes, tumors, toxicities or infections. Neuro-ophthalmologists also treat patients who have problems controlling eye movement, which may present difficulty with eyesight in certain directions or double vision due to misalignment. This misalignment, known as strabismus, may be treated with prism lenses or in some cases with surgical procedures.
Weill Cornell Medicine neuro-ophthalmologists, with both neurological and ophthalmological fellowship training and expertise, offer comprehensive clinical care using state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and facilities, as well as communication and counseling for our patients.
Conditions we typically provide treatment for include:
For information regarding any of the conditions above, refer to the American Academy of Ophthalmology Eye Health Library.
Patients who should be seen by a neuro-ophthalmologist include:
Neuro-ophthalmology examinations begin with a careful review of patient problems and relevant issues, followed by an evaluation of vision and eye movement, typically including visual acuity, color vision and visual field testing. Eyes are examined under a microscope (slit lamp), with special attention paid to the optic nerve and retina. In most cases, dilating drops are administered to enhance the examination of these important structures. Eye movements are also evaluated, which may include the use of prism lenses and special charts. Additionally, the pressure and size of each eye may be examined. For unequal pupils, drops may be administered to identify the cause of the problem. Visual field testing is conducted using a machine that displays lights in various areas while a patient presses a button to acknowledge each light, assessing possible patterns of visual field loss that may lead to a diagnosis. Finally, neuro-ophthalmologists sit down with their patients to discuss their condition and any treatments or management strategies available.