Vergence in mild traumatic brain injury: a pilot study

J Rehabil Res Dev. 2012;49(7):1083-100. doi: 10.1682/jrrd.2010.07.0129.

Abstract

Vergence dysfunction in individuals with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) may have a negative effect on quality of life, functional abilities, and rehabilitative progress. In this study, we used a range of dynamic and static objective and subjective measures of vergence to assess 21 adult patients with mTBI and nearwork symptoms. The results were compared with 10 control adult subjects. With respect to dynamic parameters, responses in those with mTBI were slowed, variable, and delayed. With respect to static parameters, reduced near point of convergence and restricted near vergence ranges were found in those with mTBI. The present results provide evidence for the substantial adverse effect of mTBI on vergence function.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Brain Injuries / complications
  • Brain Injuries / physiopathology*
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Convergence, Ocular*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Ocular Motility Disorders / etiology
  • Ocular Motility Disorders / physiopathology*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Quality of Life
  • Severity of Illness Index