Winkelfehlsichtigkeit (Dr. Gorzny)

This book does not intend to divide, but to end a dispute spanning over 70 years regarding anisometropia (heterophoria). Vision is a high-performance bodily function: two eyes deliver a synchronized, colorful, three-dimensional film, requiring enormous energy expenditure and the finest muscle coordination. When the eyes do not work together precisely, they must constantly readjust – this is called anisometropia.

While ophthalmologists measure heterophoria dissociatively (separation of both images), optician Hans-Joachim Haase developed associative measurement in the 1950s with the Polatest device – the so-called MKH method, in which central vision is separated, but the periphery is maintained. It is successfully applied by opticians, but rejected by ophthalmologists – which led to an ongoing professional and political conflict.

My own experiences with over a thousand patients show that MKH measurements lead to significantly better results – both in the fitting of prism glasses and in surgical corrections. Strabismus (misaligned vision) affects many physical and psychological functions: from postural problems and ADHD to dyslexia. All of this can be alleviated or even cured by correction.

Nevertheless, most ophthalmologists refuse MKH, although the procedure has long been available. As an ophthalmologist who works closely with opticians, I am advocating for an end to the blockade – for the benefit of patients. This book shows through case studies and analyses that MKH is a practical and necessary approach – and that health insurance companies should cover the costs for it.

Reading sample

Asthenopia: A Disorder of Binocular Vision with Far-Reaching Consequences, Dr. med. Fritz Gorzny, Paperback, 406 pages, €26