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Topographic analysis and visual acuity after radial keratotomy.
P J McDonnell1, J Garbus, P F Lopez
1Estelle Doheny Eye Institute, Los Angeles, CA 90033.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|December 15, 1988
Summary
After radial keratotomy, some eyes developed distinct corneal curvature regions, acting as multifocal lenses. This explained excellent visual acuity despite standard measurements suggesting otherwise.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Visual Optics
Background:
- Radial keratotomy (RK) is a refractive surgical procedure to correct myopia.
- Standard keratometry and refraction may not fully capture complex corneal changes post-RK.
Observation:
- Computerized corneal topography revealed distinct regions of differing curvature in 3 of 11 eyes post-RK.
- These findings were observed in eyes with excellent uncorrected visual acuity that seemed inconsistent with standard measurements.
Findings:
- The identified separate corneal curvature regions acted as alternative effective optical zones.
- The cornea effectively functioned as a multifocal lens, enabling superior visual acuity.
- This phenomenon explained the discrepancy between subjective visual acuity and objective measurements.
Implications:
- Corneal topography is crucial for understanding visual outcomes after RK.
- The cornea's adaptability can create multifocal optics, impacting visual performance.
- Further research may explore optimizing multifocal corneal properties for enhanced vision.