An attempt of visual function assessment using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in patients with severe motor and intellectual disabilities (SMID)

Abstract

Visual localization and gazing abilities were assessed in patients with severe motor and intellectual disabilities (hereinafter, abbreviated as SMID) by using near-infrared spectroscopy. In observational assessments, an increase of oxyhemoglobin concentration was observed in patients with SMID and healthy adults, who showed ability to gaze toward visual stimulation. While in patients who did not gaze toward the visual stimulation, there was hardly any change observed with the oxyhemoglobin concentration. Hence, it was suggested that “gaze” or “no gaze” could be regarded as an increase or no change, respectively, of oxyhemoglobin concentration in the visual function assessment using near-infrared spectroscopy in patients with SMID.