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Orthoptic and ophtalmologic assistance

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FARMACOLOGIA E OTTICA FISIOPATOLOGICA
Module OTTICA FISIOPATOLOGICA

Academic Year 2026/2027 - Teacher: NICCOLO' CASTELLINO

Expected Learning Outcomes

  • At the end of the course, students will have acquired theoretical and applied knowledge related to the principles of physiological optics and to the main pathophysiological mechanisms underlying visual function. In accordance with the first Dublin Descriptor (knowledge and understanding), students will be able to describe the fundamentals of geometrical and physiological optics as applied to the visual system, explain the mechanisms of accommodation and convergence, and discuss the main refractive errors and their pathophysiological basis. They will also be able to recognize functional alterations associated with binocular vision disorders and ocular motility disturbances.

    With reference to the second Dublin Descriptor (applying knowledge and understanding), students will be able to apply the principles of physiological optics in the interpretation of clinical situations typical of orthoptic practice, correlating anamnestic and instrumental findings with underlying functional mechanisms. They will analyze refractive and binocular conditions, interpret the results of functional visual tests, and contribute to the orthoptic assessment of the patient by integrating theoretical knowledge with professional practice.

    In line with the third Dublin Descriptor (making judgements), students will develop the ability to critically evaluate data collected during functional visual examinations, distinguishing between physiological conditions, functional adaptations, and pathological findings. They will be able to formulate interpretative hypotheses consistent with the principles of pathophysiological optics, within the scope of orthoptic professional competencies and in collaboration with the ophthalmology team.

    Regarding the fourth Dublin Descriptor (communication skills), students will be able to use appropriate technical and scientific terminology in the fields of optics and orthoptics, clearly describe the results of functional examinations, and interact effectively with ophthalmologists and other healthcare professionals. They will also be able to provide patients with understandable explanations regarding visual function mechanisms and any detected disorders.

    Finally, in accordance with the fifth Dublin Descriptor (learning skills), students will develop the ability to independently update their knowledge in physiological optics and visual pathophysiology by consulting specialized textbooks and relevant guidelines, thereby supporting continuous professional development within the field of orthoptics.

    • Course Structure

    Teaching is based on lectures divided by main topics. At the beginning of each lecture, a review of the previous ones is carried out to ensure continuity of understanding on the part of the students

    Required Prerequisites

    Having attended the ophthalmology clinic in order to combine practical experience with a better understanding of theoretical concepts translated into real clinical practice.

    Attendance of Lessons

    Attend at least 50% of the lectures

    Detailed Course Content

    Basic Optics

    • Review of geometric optics

    • Light propagation

    • Reflection and refraction

    • Ocular diopter and dioptric power

    • Simple and compound optical systems

    • Optical aberrations

     Physiological Optics of the Eye

    • Optical anatomy: cornea, crystalline lens, aqueous humor, vitreous humor

    • Image formation on the retina

    • Accommodation and focus variation

    • Pupil: optical role and light regulation mechanisms

    • Fovea and peripheral retina

     Binocular Vision

    • Principles of binocular vision

    • Sensory and motor fusion

    • Stereoscopic vision

    • Necessary conditions for normal binocular vision

    • Pathophysiology: diplopia, suppression, amblyopia, abnormal retinal correspondence

    Refractive Errors and Optical Corrections

    • Myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, anisometropia

    • Presbyopia

    • Functional consequences on binocular balance

    • Optical corrections:

      • spherical and cylindrical lenses

      • prism lenses

      • progressive lenses

      • contact lenses

    Accommodation and Pharmacology

    • Mechanisms of accommodation

    • Cycloplegia: mechanisms, diagnostic and therapeutic uses

    Refractive Surgery

    • Optical and physiopathological principles

    • Main techniques

    • Effects on accommodation and binocular balance

    • Complications

    Textbook Information

    I vizi di refrazione, Paliaga 2008 IV edition


    AuthorTitlePublisherYearISBN
    Gian Paolo PaliagaI vizi di refrazioneMinerva medica2008

    Learning Assessment

    Learning Assessment Procedures

  • clarity of expression

  • General and detailed knowledge of the subject

  • Analytical skills

  • Clinical understanding

    • Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises

  • What are the main types of lenses available to us?

  • Can you explain what accommodation is?

  • Do you know the main techniques of refractive surgery?

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