Arterio-venous transit time in the superficial layer of the optic nerve head: A new parameter of glaucomatous damage

Purpose:To evaluate arterio-venous transit time (AVTT) of the superficial layer of the optic nerve head (ONH) in primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). Methods:Circulation times of the superficial layer of the ONH were quantified - in 35 POAG and 35 age-matvhed controls - using an objective, electronic guided examination of a high speed dynamic fluorescein angiography. AVTT of the superficial layer of the ONH was compared between groups, and vs ONH morphology and visual field defects. Results: AVTT of the superficial layer of the ONH was significantly: higher in POAG patients vs controls ( 2.28 vs 1.29 sec; p< .001), and related to ONH morphology and field defects. Conclusion: AVTT of the superficial layer of the ONH may be exactly quantified and may represent a new, objective parameter of glaucomatous damage.