THE HISTORY OF THE AMSLER GRID The Amsler grid, used since 1945, is a grid of horizontal and vertical lines used to monitor a person's central visual field. It is a diagnostic tool that aids in the detection of visual disturbances caused by changes in the retina, particularly the macula (e.g. macular degeneration, Epiretinal membrane), as well as the optic nerve and the visual pathway to the brain. In the test, the person looks with each eye separately at the little dot in the center of the grid. Patients may notice that they don't see the lines as straight, or lines are missing,... The original Amsler grid was black and white. A color version with a blue and yellow grid is more sensitive and can be used to test for a wide variety of visual pathway abnormalities, including those associated with the retina, the optic nerve, and the pituitary gland. THE DEVELOPMENT OF LASIK EYE SURGERY Visual changes can signal any number of conditions, one of which is fluid under the retina. Here’s how to use the amsler grid properly: With proper use of the amsler grid, patients can detect very small changes in their vision. HOW TO USE THE AMSLER GRID - Wear your normal reading glasses or wear bifocals, using the portion for near vision. - Place the grid on a flat surface you see frequently, such as the bathroom mirror or refrigerator door. - Cover one eye and look at the central black dot with the other eye. - While looking at the central dot you should be able to see the four corners of the square. Note that the large square is made up of many smaller squares. - The first day you look at the grid, mark with a pencil any distorted areas and any blank, gray, or blurry spots. This is your baseline pattern. - Then look at the center of the grid every day. It is very important that you call for an appointment the very day you notice any changes in the pattern: wavy lines, distortions, enlargements of blank spots, and new blank spots. Our receptionists are aware of these kinds of problems and will arrange to have you seen as soon as possible. This evaluation will determine whether the new symptoms are due to fluid under the retina and if this fluid is coming from a leaking vessel that might be treatable with the argon laser. If you have any questions regarding the use of the amsler grid, please call the office at 231-739-9009.