Visual field testing with the new Humphrey Matrix: a comparison between the FDT N-30 and Matrix N-30-F tests

Purpose: To determine if the N-30-F test with the new Humphrey Matrix instrument is comparable to the traditional frequency-doubling technology (FDT) N-30 test. Methods: A sample of 47 eyes from 47 patients (five normal subjects, 27 with ocular hypertension and 15 with glaucoma) underwent visual field (VF) testing with standard automated perimetry, and with FDT, using the FDT N-30 program, and the Matrix N-30-F program (using the same 19 tested points, full-threshold strategy, but with an enhanced algorithm to reduce testing time). The plots, mean deviation (MD), pattern standard deviation (PSD), defect locations and test time were compared. Results: The agreement between the two tests was shown to be good, except for subjects with large VF defects, in which greater PSD values were observed with the FDT test, whereas the Matrix test gave a higher MD and number of abnormal test locations in the total deviation plot. A lack of agreement was also found for the number of abnormal test locations on the pattern deviation plot at any VF loss severity level. The test time for the Matrix test was significantly shorter. Conclusion: The FDT N-30 and Matrix N-30-F tests proved to be comparable in cases of early to moderate VF defects.