Improved ultrasound pachymetry at corneal mid-periphery

Abstract

Surgeons performing radial keratotomies currently rely mainly on central and paracentral measurements to set blade depths since the mid-peripheral thickness is normally greater (Martola & Baum, 1968; Tomlinson, 1972). However, the occurrence of corneal irregularities and resultant perforations together with the increasing use of other forms of kerato-refractive surgery suggest that accurate measurements are also required in the mid-peripheral region. A typical example of corneal ‘scalloping’ is shown in Fig. 1.