Aims: To evaluate the neuro-ophthalmological assessments carried out in the ophthalmology department of the university medical center, Brest, identifying the population seen, the examinations performed, the pathologies treated and patient outcomes, so as to suggest solutions to improve quality of care.
Methodology: Retrospective study over a period of more than five years, between January 1st, 2004 and October 31st, 2009. Data were collected from each patient's chart with the help of a standardized spreadsheet including epidemiological, clinical, paraclinical and treatment data.
Results: Analysis of the 269 charts reveals that optic neuropathies are the most frequently encountered etiologies. In addition to the standardized assessment currently used on the service, we suggest adding a specific neuro-ophthalmological clinical intake form so as to standardize and perfect the diagnostic approach.
Conclusion: Optimization of quality of care in neuro-ophthalmology involves a multidisciplinary approach, requiring close collaboration between ophthalmologists, neurologists and radiologists. A careful, regular analysis of our practice patterns with respect to scientific advances should improve consistency and quality of care for our patients.
Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.