What is Potential Vision?
Knowing before cataract surgery how well you will see is possible with a great degree of accuracy. Potential vision is the ability of the retina to function. If the potential vision is good, the retina works well and a good surgical outcome is expected. Conversely, if the potential vision is poor, the retina is unable to support good vision and a good surgical outcome is not expected. There is a patented potential vision tester called the Retinal Acuity Meter or RAM® that can "see" through the cataract and measure the capability of the retina. Research performed at Columbia University in New York City has shown the merit of this instrument. (see references).
Potential vision testing in not a new concept. What is new is the RAM® , a new tester that has been shown to be accurate, is easy for patients to use, and takes little time (usually less than 2 minutes). It is the only potential vision tester to accurately measure in eyes with nerve damage due to glaucoma.
Retinal Acuity Meter (RAM®)
This new test was developed by physicians at Columbia University in New York City. It was initially named the Illuminated Near Card or INC. Research has shown that its main benefit lies in its unique ability to measure retinal function, to clarify the usefulness of the instrument it has been renamed the Retinal Acuity Meter or RAM®. Patients have found the test easy and it takes less than 2 minutes. Below is a picture of a patient taking the RAM Test.
