Abnormal Ipsilesional Hemifields and Improvement Post-Biofeedback Training in Patients with Hemianopia Measured with the MAIA Microperimeter

Introduction: This study analyzes the ipsilesional hemifields in patients with hemianopia and biofeedback training (BT). Methods: Prospectively, BT stimulated the paracentral ipsilesional hemifields. BT was compared to a control group using C 10-2 program 68 points on the MAIA microperimetry (Centervue, Padova, Italy). Five weekly BT sessions of 20 min were delivered. A total of 34 subjects enrolled, with 28 in treatment, and six in control group. Outcomes: General retinal sensitivity (RS), average of the central two columns, the paracentral column of the blind hemifield, ipsilesional hemifield, and the whole ipsilesional and blind hemifields. Paired t-tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: Control and treatment groups were equal demographically. In the control group, no difference was found pre-and-post BT. Baseline RS on the ipsilesional hemifield was 21.4 ± 4.5, lower than the normal cut-off value of 25 dB (p < 0.001). BT improved RS from 14.0 ± 4.2 to 15.0 ± 4.8, p = 0.01, paracentral two columns, 16.3 ± 5.3 to 17.8 ± 5.6, p = 0.01, central column in ipsilesional hemifield, 20.7 ± 5.4 to 21.8 ± 4.8, p = 0.05, and ipsilesional hemifield, 21.42 ± 4.8 to 22.39 ± 4.24), p = 0.01. Conclusions: Ipsilesional hemifields were abnormal and BT improved RS, benefiting patients with hemianopia.