Collection of Digital Parameters From Parts of the Neurological Examination Using an Eye Tracker
This study aims to make neurological exams, especially checking eye movements, more accurate using a new eye-tracking system. Doctors usually check eye movements by watching them, but this new technology can measure them precisely. Researchers want to see if this eye-tracking device is comfortable and easy for patients to use in a hospital setting. They are also checking if the measurements from the device match what doctors observe during a standard exam. Finally, they want to explore if the eye tracker can give new information about eye movements that doctors don't usually pick up, which could help in understanding conditions like Parkinson's disease or other neurological problems.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When doctors check your brain and nerves, they often carry out a 'neurological examination'. A really important part of this check involves looking at your eye movements. Usually, doctors do this just by watching your eyes carefully. This study is exploring a new way to make this check even more precise and helpful using a special eye-tracking device.
This device can follow your eye movements very accurately over time. It can measure things like how quickly your eyes move, how steadily they hold a gaze, and how long it takes for them to react. These are details that are very hard for a doctor to see just by eye. This new technology could really improve how doctors understand and monitor neurological conditions, like those affecting older people or illnesses such as Parkinson's disease and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy.
Before this technology can become widely used, we need to understand two main things. Firstly, is it easy and comfortable for patients to use? This study will ask people about their experience with the device. Secondly, does the information the eye tracker collects match what doctors already find in their usual checks? And can it give us extra, new insights into eye movements that doctors don't currently get? This could help doctors get a fuller picture of someone's neurological health.
Key takeaways
- New eye-tracking technology aims to improve neurological exams.
- The study checks if the device is easy for patients to use.
- It compares precise digital measurements with doctor's observations.
- Could provide new insights into eye movements for conditions like Parkinson's.
- No medication is involved, and participation is short term.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and either have a neurological condition or be receiving treatment for one. You must be a patient (either staying in the hospital or visiting as an outpatient) of the Department of Neurology at UKSH Campus Kiel.
It's important that you can understand what the study involves when it's explained to you and that you're willing to sign a consent form, showing you agree to take part. This ensures you fully understand your involvement.
You cannot take part if you are under legal guardianship or if you have problems with understanding, memory, or knowing where you are, which could be a sign of dementia. If there's any doubt, you might be asked to do a quick test (called the MoCA) to check your thinking abilities.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you been diagnosed with or treated for a neurological condition?
- Are you a patient at the Department of Neurology, UKSH Campus Kiel (in hospital or outpatient)?
- Can you understand the study information and give your consent?
- Are you not under legal guardianship and do not have problems with understanding or memory?
What does participation involve?
This study primarily involves using a special eye-tracking system. You will be asked to sit in front of the device, which will track your eye movements. Researchers will also compare the data from the eye tracker with the findings from your doctor's usual eye movement assessment during a standard neurological examination. The main goal is to understand how easy the eye-tracking system is for patients to use. There are no medications involved. The total duration of your participation is expected to be relatively short, focused on the eye-tracking session and questionnaire about your experience.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Department of NeurologyVerified postcodeKiel, Germany
Common questions
What is an eye tracker?
An eye tracker is a special device that precisely records how your eyes move, where you look, and how long you focus on things.
Why is this study important for eye movements?
It helps us see if a new device can give doctors very accurate information about eye movements that they can't get by just looking, which could help understand brain conditions better.
Will this device replace my doctor?
No, this device is meant to help doctors by giving them more detailed information, not to replace their expertise or the usual checks they do.
Do I need to do anything special before taking part?
No, you don't need to prepare in any special way. Just make sure you understand the study and are willing to participate.
What happens after the study?
The information gathered will be analysed to see how well the eye tracker works and if it can provide useful insights for diagnosing and monitoring neurological conditions.
How to find out more
Walter Maetzler, Prof.
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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