Description

A Keratometer is a specialized instrument used in optometry and ophthalmology to measure the curvature of the cornea, which is the clear outermost layer of the eye. The instrument is commonly used to measure the degree of astigmatism in a patient’s eye, which is a condition where the cornea is not evenly curved and can cause blurry or distorted vision.

The Keratometer works by projecting two rings of light onto the cornea and measuring the reflection of these rings. The instrument calculates the curvature of the cornea based on the shape and spacing of the reflected rings, providing an accurate measurement of the corneal curvature.

Keratometers are commonly used by optometrists and ophthalmologists to determine the correct prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses, as well as to assess the need for corneal surgery, such as LASIK or PRK. The measurements taken by the Keratometer can also be used to diagnose other corneal conditions, such as keratoconus, which is a condition where the cornea becomes progressively thinner and more cone-shaped.