Corneal topography uses computer equipment and software to measure the curvature of the cornea, allowing for more precise measurements than traditional keratometers. It is useful in diagnosing and monitoring ocular conditions, evaluating patients before and after surgery, and designing and fitting contact lenses. The procedure is quick and painless for patients.
Corneal topography, often referred to as photokeratoscopy or videokeratography, is a technology often used by optometrists in the field of eye health. It uses computer equipment and analytical software to measure the natural curvature of the human cornea. Using a unique system of concentric rings projected onto a person’s cornea, a virtual image is created from which calculations are made to determine the curvature of the cornea. These measurements are then mapped out in the form of a color-coded, multi-dimensional print that looks like a topographical map you might come across in a geography textbook.
In the past, keratometers measured just four points on a small central portion of the cornea. Current corneal topography equipment can evaluate up to 10,000 specific points on the entire surface of the cornea. This allows for a much more precise and accurate measurement.
Corneal topography is instrumental in the diagnosis and monitoring of the progression of two particular ocular conditions: keratoconus and pellucid marginal degeneration. Both of these conditions can impair vision once the cornea begins to curve or change shape. It is also invaluable when it comes to evaluating patients with laser-assisted keratotomy in situ (LASIK) or radial keratotomy both before and after surgery. Furthermore, it can also be used in cases of pre- and post-surgical penetrating keratoplasty.
Before surgery, optometrists can use corneal mapping to identify any problems that may exist, including scarring and irregular stigmatism. After surgery, corneal topography can monitor the success of the surgery and determine if the eye is healing properly. When it comes to contact lenses, corneal topography is useful during both the design and fitting phases. Photokeratoscopy software is such that details of the lens, including material, size, and design, can be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Although the price of the equipment can be very high, there is no doubt that this technology has become a standard in eye care. To encourage equipment purchases, many manufacturers offer leasing packages to offset initial investment costs. Additionally, many are of the opinion that technology has led to shorter office visits for patients, as well as higher and invaluable patient satisfaction.
From the patient’s perspective, the corneal topography procedure is quick and painless. The patient simply presses their face against the machine’s lighted, round bowl while a technician takes a series of photos. The computer will quickly generate an image using different colors to indicate different degrees of slope, much like a topographical map of a landscape uses different colors to show changes in elevation.
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