The AVCC Ophthalmology department in Fishers, IN offers specialized testing to determine the functional visual capacity of the retina of the eye.
The retina is the tissue in the back of the eye containing specialized sight cells (rods and cones) that convert the incoming light stimulus to an electrical signal that is transported to the brain to be interpreted as vision. A retinal function test is called an “electroretinogram” or ERG. The ERG is a common ophthalmic procedure that can be performed both on awake and sedated patients, and it requires around 20 minutes of complete darkness (“dark adaptation”) before performing the test.
The patient is connected to a computer through electrodes placed around the eye. Retinal function is measured as a waveform of electrical activity. The larger the waveform, the better the retinal function.
This test is commonly performed on ophthalmology patients with cataracts to deem them suitable candidates for cataract surgery. This test is also useful in blind patients with no ocular abnormalities identified on exam to distinguish between retinal disease and brain disease.
Contact VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center to inquire about ERG services for your pet.