Computer program to calculate vectorial change of refraction induced by refractive surgery

After refractive surgery, there may be changes in the spherical and the cylindrical components of the ametropia. In astigmatism, there may be variations in both the power and the axis. The best way to describe change in astigmatism caused by surgery is by vectorial analysis, which indicates the changes in power and the axis. However, in clinical practice, this procedure is limited by the tedious calculations required to establish the oblique cylinder combinations.

We propose a computer program for the calculation, by vectorial analysis, of the refractive changes induced by surgery. The program allows for reference to refractive data or keratometric readings. When the refractive data are considered, it is also possible to obtain the transposition of the correction values from the spectacle plane to that of the cornea. Finally, the program enables the user to calculate the coupling ratio.

Some selected surgical cases are discussed by way of example.

We think that this program will be a simple and accurate means of evaluating the results of refractive and corneal surgery.