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Optics of the corneal epithelium
1Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, Fla.
Refractive & Corneal Surgery
|January 1, 1993
Summary
The corneal epithelium actively contributes about 1.03 D to the eye's refractive power. Understanding its role is crucial for improving the predictability of refractive surgeries like photorefractive keratectomy.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optics
- Corneal Physiology
Background:
- The refractive contribution of the corneal epithelium is not well understood.
- It may impact the success of keratorefractive surgeries such as photorefractive keratectomy and epikeratoplasty.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the refractive effect of the corneal epithelium on the overall refractive power of the cornea.
Main Methods:
- Corneal keratometry was measured in 10 human eye-bank eyes before and after epithelium removal.
- Measurements were taken using an automated keratometer in 2.0 mm and 3.6 mm diameter zones.
Main Results:
- Epithelium removal consistently increased corneal refractive power.
- The average increase was +1.03 D (2.0 mm zone) and +0.85 D (3.6 mm zone).
- Astigmatism power and axis changed in most cases after epithelium removal.
Conclusions:
- The corneal epithelium significantly influences the cornea's surface power, contributing an average of 1.03 D centrally.
- Non-uniform epithelial thickness is suggested by astigmatism changes.
- Accounting for the epithelium's refractive role is vital for enhancing the predictability of refractive surgical procedures.