Authors' objectives: This report aims to provide information on the current status of the scanning laser ophthalmoscope as a diagnostic tool to detect and monitor glaucoma.

Authors' recommendations: The available evidence suggests that SLO is still a research tool, currently undergoing evaluation in clinical practice. It has potential to permit safe, rapid and reproducible measurements of the ONH (ophthalmoscopy) and the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) for early detection of glaucoma but its accuracy is still to be fully established. The use of SLO offer potential advantages over the conventional photographic techniques. However, the scanning laser ophthalmoscopes currently manufactured are fairly sophisticated and expensive instruments combining advanced electro-optic and computer technology. They require a trained examiner if they are to be used effectively. The need for an adequate number of suitable peripherals and their costs should also be taken into account. Further evidence is needed on the incremental costs of SLO, its incremental benefits in terms of clinical outcomes and on the performance of this instrument in clinical practice.

Authors' methods: Review

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 1996

URL for published report: https://www.ihe.ca/advanced-search?type=1020

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Institute of Health Economics

Contact Address: 1200, 10405 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T5J 3N4. Tel: +1 780 448 4881; Fax: +1 780 448 0018;

Contact Name: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Contact Email: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Copyright: Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research