Knowledge assessment of the importance of corneal biomechanics in glaucoma among physicians, ophthalmologists, and glaucoma specialists

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the knowledge of healthcare professionals about corneal biomechanics in glaucoma and identify knowledge gaps for educational focus. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study involving an online questionnaire addressing knowledge and the importance of corneal biomechanics in glaucoma patients, completed by volunteer ophthalmologists, glaucoma specialists, and physicians from other specialties residing in Brazil. Data analysis was based on knowledge about the subject in these three groups, and the analyses were performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 20.0. Results: Out of 316 participants, 312 were analyzed after excluding 4 for incomplete responses. Glaucoma specialists showed superior knowledge in corneal biomechanics (99%) compared to non-specialists (90.3%) and other medical professionals (32.1%). Knowledge of specific devices like Ocular Response Analyzer and Corvis® ST was higher among specialists. However, even among specialists, detailed knowledge of the applicability of biomechanics in glaucoma was less common. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for enhanced knowledge dissemination on corneal biomechanics in glaucoma across the medical community. Despite glaucoma specialists’ deeper understanding, there is a general uncertainty about biomechanics’ practical application. Addressing this through digital education tools and distance learning could bridge the knowledge gap, benefiting various medical specialties.

Keywords

• Glaucoma
• Biomechanics
• Surveys and questionnaires