Enhancing Vision: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Telescopic Devices in Individuals with Retinitis Pigmentosa

Introduction: Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) comprises inherited retinal disorders leading to vision loss. LVDs aid individuals with RP by enhancing visual acuity (VA). Low Vision Devices (LVDs) offer the potential to enhance the independence and function of visually impaired individuals. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of telescopic LVDs in individuals with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Methods: A retrospective, interventional study was conducted at the Khyber Teaching Hospital, Pakistan, Records of 56 non-syndromic RP patients, examined between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2022, having best corrected VA between 0.30 and 1.30 logMAR were reviewed. Descriptive statistics and paired sample t-tests were employed to analyse changes in VA. Results: Most RP patients were male (39; 69.7%), with a high consanguinity rate (43; 76.8%). Of the 56 subjects, 45(80.35%) showed an improvement in distance VA with the telescope, while 11(19.64%) had constricted visual fields and showed no improvement in VA. The mean distance best corrected VA improved from 0.90logMAR (without LVDs) to 0.58 logMAR with a LVD (p<0.001). Binocular telescopes were preferred by 51.8% of adults and children. Conclusion: LVDs significantly enhanced VA for individuals with RP, emphasising the importance of early device availability. It is important to note that not all patients may show the same pattern of improvement. A personalised rehabilitation plan may be necessary for each individual.