To evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality-based vision therapy in improving distance exotropia control in pediatric patients with intermittent exotropia, specifically focusing on the primary outcome measure of distance exotropia control score.
Key Findings:
Patients in the therapy group showed a median change in distance exotropia control score of -0.33 compared to no change in the observation group (p-value needed).
30% of treated patients achieved at least a 1-point improvement in distance exotropia control score versus 11% in the control group (p-value needed).
Higher adherence (over 75% of sessions) correlated with a larger improvement in distance control score (-0.71-point difference).
Modest improvements were also noted in near exotropia control and exodeviation magnitude, but no significant changes in stereoacuity or quality-of-life scores.
Interpretation:
Virtual reality-based vision therapy provides a statistically significant, albeit modest, improvement in distance exotropia control in children with intermittent exotropia, highlighting the need for further research.
Limitations:
The study did not observe long-term effects beyond the 12-week intervention.
No significant differences were found in several secondary outcomes, including stereoacuity and quality-of-life measures, and the sample size may limit generalizability.
Conclusion:
Virtual reality-based vision therapy is a promising approach for improving distance control in pediatric patients with intermittent exotropia, warranting further investigation and consideration in clinical practice.
