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Review and classification of corneal topographers
F H Jongsma1, J de Brabander, F Hendrikse
1Eye Research Institute Maastricht, Department of Ophthalmology, Universiteit Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands, NL.
Lasers in Medical Science
|March 4, 2014
Summary
Corneal topography devices are essential for refractive surgery and contact lens fitting. This study classifies topographers by optical principles, aiding practitioners in selecting the best diagnostic tool.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optical Engineering
Background:
- Corneal topography is a crucial diagnostic tool in ophthalmology, particularly for refractive surgery and contact lens fitting.
- Existing classifications of corneal topographers lack clarity, leading to confusion among practitioners regarding device capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To inventory developed corneal topographers.
- To analyze the fundamental optical principles behind various topographer designs.
- To establish a classification system for corneal topographers based on their optical principles.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases like Medline and the IBM Patent Server.
- References from relevant articles and patents were also reviewed.
- Devices were analyzed and classified based on their light source and light-matter interaction principles.
Main Results:
- The study identified a variety of corneal topographer designs.
- A classification system was developed, categorizing devices into 12 distinct groups based on optical principles.
- Four of these classified groups have commercially available devices.
Conclusions:
- The proposed classification system provides a clear framework for understanding different corneal topographer types.
- This classification aids researchers and clinicians in evaluating device capabilities for specific applications.
- It helps demystify the range of topographers available to eye care professionals.
