Transient Visual Effects of Prolonged Small Spot Foveal Laser Exposure

Abstract

In recent experiments, we have evaluated the effects of acute, threshold damage levels of small spot foveal laser exposure. These experiments revealed transient changes in acuity and contrast sensitivity lasting from 10 to 15 minutes postexposure. Following recovery from such effects, normal acuity and contrast sensitivity are not necessarily degraded, although continuous exposure at these levels does result in parafoveal compensation for foveal damage and eventual deficit in fine visual acuity. Development of a test of foveal function during and after small spot foveal exposure was the primary objective of this investigation. This objective was accomplished. At retinal damage levels, only a small focal foveal lesion was observed indicating the ability to utilize the fovea during such exposure. Postexposure recovery effects analyzed for target size and contrast conditions suggest retinal and possibly cortical saturation processes.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 1989
Accession Number
ADA207945

Entities

People

  • David O. Robins
  • Harry Zwick
  • Nawim Magsood

Organizations

  • Letterman Army Hospital

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Animals
  • Argon Lasers
  • Classification
  • Frequency
  • Identification
  • Ion Lasers
  • Laboratory Animals
  • Laser Safety
  • Lasers
  • Maryland
  • Materials
  • Medical Personnel
  • Saturation
  • Task Performance And Analysis
  • United States
  • Visual Acuity

Readers

  • Auditory Neuroscience/Auditory Physiology.
  • Vision Science/Vision Psychology/Cognitive Neuroscience.

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy