Electrodiagnostic Services (ERG)
Electrodiagnostic testing is a specialized eye test which measures the electrical response of the light sensitive cells in the back of the eye.
The Midwestern University Eye Institute houses the latest technology and equipment to serve all patients, from simple cases to complex. The equipment available for referring doctors includes a full field electroretinogram (ERG), a multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG), pattern electroretinogram (PERG), visually evoked potential (VEP) and electrooculogram (EOG). For many of these procedures, Midwestern University is one of the few resources available in the Phoenix Valley.
How We Can Help
Electrodiagnostic services can help you if you have been diagnosed with unexplained vision loss, hereditary eye disorders, or toxicity from certain medications that alter vision such as hydroxychloroquine (plaquenil). The machines used can diagnose eye problems that may be difficult to diagnose with other clinical methods.
What to Expect
If you are referred for electrodiagnostic testing, you should anticipate a lengthy visit (~3-4 hours) due to the complexity of testing. In most circumstances, you will have your eyes dilated. For many of the tests, a specialized type of contact lens will be placed on the eye to help measure the electrical response of the eye. If you are referred for electrodiagnostic testing by another provider, it is important that all of your records be sent for review prior to the appointment. You will be examined by a team of students and doctor. In addition to the electrodiagnostic testing, you will most likely undergo additional testing to aid in assessment. In most instances, the evaluation will be billed to your medical insurance rather than to vision insurance.