Comparison of optic disc image assessment methods when examining serial photographs for glaucomatous progression

AIM To assess serial, simultaneous stereo optic disc images by four methods for glaucomatous progression. METHODS Using varying techniques, two ophthalmologists assessed serial optic disc images of 52 eyes from 27 patients with a mean duration between images of 18 months. The neuroretinal rim width was qualitatively assessed by four assessment methods and compared with quantitative rim measurements made using PC based software. RESULTS The highest sensitivity of 83% was achieved using computerised stereo chronoscopy. CONCLUSION Stereo chronoscopy improved the detection of subtle optic disc changes when compared with simpler assessment techniques.