Automated measurement of strabismic deviation.

A new computerized method of performing automated measurements of the angle of strabismus is presented, based on an infrared television camera, an image analyzer, and a commercial computer. This automated system provides a strategy of examination for patients in whom strabismus is suspected and makes possible a qualitative and quantitative diagnosis of the type of strabismus. In the case of a paralytic deviation, the involved muscle can also be identified with this instrument. The raw data from the image processor are saved and enhanced digitally. The image can be retrieved via monitor or printer, and data can be saved on mass memory. With this instrument, it is possible to follow various diagnostic procedures for strabismus step-by-step and to answer the following questions: is strabismus present? Is it convergent, divergent, or vertical strabismus? What is the angle of deviation? Which is the paralytic or paretic muscle in the case of incomitant deviation?