Clinical assessment of binocular vision with the “ZEISS Polatest”

Purpose The “ZEISS Polatest”, introduced in 1958, was the first instrument to allow a complete and precise assessment of binocular vision, including heterophoria. In this talk we give an overview about the history of for binocular vision testing using Polatest and its clinical application. We will highlight how binocular vision testing can be incorporated into the routine visual acuity measurement for every patient. The information gained allows us to provide better eye care for our patients in their day‐to‐day vision needs. Methods The ZEISS Polatest uses polarized light to separate the information sent to the right and the left eye. In this way, binocular fusion can be controlled and the rest position of each eye can be determined precisely. We will review the technology used in the ZEISS Polatest for binocular vision testing and its evolution in the last 50 years. We will also present a review of the clinical literature related. Results Modern binocular vision testing based on polarisation separation provides a superior and eficient way to screen and measure binocular vision deficiencies. Conclusion With the widespread use of 3D entertainment many patients become aware of their binocular vision deficiencies which may have been asymptomatic before. This is leading to a renewed interest in binocular vision testing in clinical practice. Incorporating binocular vision screening into the regular screening protocol increases the quality of vision care for our patients.Commercial interest