Inferior Limbal Angle Estimation: A Statistical Analysis Comparing Student Estimated Anterior Chamber Angles Using The Inferior Limbal And The Van Herick Techniques.

Background: This study was intended to further investigate an alternative approach to anterior chamber angle grading in order to prevent primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG). This grading technique was compared and contrasted with the traditional Van Herick method with the purpose of determining which estimation is most accurate. This new technique, which will be referred to as the Inferior Limbal method, was taught to second and third year optometry students who were in the process of learning angle estimation methods. Methods: Thirty-four optometry students were asked to accurately grade photographs of thirty-two anterior chamber angles. Sixteen of these photographs were of the classic Van Herick method and the other sixteen were of the Inferior Limbal method. During the survey students were given the rubric for grading both Van Herick and Inferior Limbal angles. The results of this survey were compiled and then a statistical analysis was conducted in order to determine which method was more accurate during student estimations. Results and Conclusions: There was no statistical difference in accuracy between Inferior Limbal and Van Herick angle estimation methods. Future studies concentrating on better photographic quality should be considered as this was the major limitation.