Efectividad de tratamientos tecnológicos emergentes basados en estimulación binocular para el manejo de la ambliopía entre 2015 y 2025: revisión exploratoria del entrenamiento dicóptico digital y la realidad virtual inmersiva entre población pediátrica y adulta

Abstract

Amblyopia is a neurodevelopmental visual disorder that affects visual acuity and binocular function, associated with alterations in cortical processing and mechanisms such as interocular suppression. Although conventional treatments have proven effective, they present limitations in adherence and binocular recovery, which has led to the development of therapies based on binocular stimulation through digital technologies. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of digital dichoptic training and immersive virtual reality in the treatment of amblyopia through a scoping review of scientific evidence published between 2015 and 2025, considering differences between pediatric and adult populations. Methodology: A qualitative secondary study with a scoping review design was conducted. The search was performed in specialized databases and academic search engines using search equations in Spanish and English, including descriptors related to amblyopia, binocular vision, dichoptic training, and virtual reality. Studies involving pediatric and adult populations with amblyopia were included if they evaluated technology-based binocular interventions and reported clinical visual and binocular outcomes. Results: A total of 2,826 records were identified; after screening and methodological assessment, 20 studies were included. Evidence showed improvements in visual acuity, binocular function, and stereopsis. Results were more consistent in pediatric populations, although clinically relevant benefits were also observed in adults. Heterogeneity was found across study designs, samples, protocols, and evaluation criteria. Conclusions: Digital dichoptic training and immersive virtual reality represent promising therapeutic alternatives for amblyopia, showing benefits across different age groups, although further standardized studies are required.