Corneal topography
Corneal topography: mapping the cornea to better understand vision
Visit corneal topography is a non-invasive imaging test that maps the surface of the cornea, the transparent part at the front of the eye. This diagnostic tool has become indispensable in ophthalmology, notably for assessing the regularity of the cornea, detecting certain pathologies and guiding surgical or optical management.
What does the test involve?
Corneal topography is based on the analysis of the curvature and shape of the cornea using a device called a corneal topographer. It projects rings of light onto the eye and measures reflections to build up a three-dimensional image of the corneal surface. The result is a color map representing flat, rounded or irregular areas.
Why use corneal topography?
This examination is used in many situations:
Keratoconus screening and follow-upa degenerative disease of the cornea;
Preoperative assessment prior to refractive surgery (like LASIK);
Corneal quality control after transplant or surgery ;
Precise contact lens fittingparticularly rigid or specialized;
Diagnosis of irregular astigmatism that glasses do a poor job of correcting.
How does the exam work?
The examination is quick, painless and requires no eye contact. The patient places his or her chin and forehead on a support, stares at a point of light, and in a few seconds, the device captures the necessary data. No pupillary dilation or local anaesthetic is required.
How useful is it in clinical practice?
Corneal topography offers a detailed view of the cornea that is not always possible with a slit-lamp examination. It enables early detection of anomalies invisible to the naked eyeThis is essential for preventing certain complications, particularly in refractive surgery. It also helps to personalize treatments according to the precise morphology of each cornea.
Corneal topography is a simple but invaluable examination for assessing the health of the cornea. Its precision makes it an essential tool in the management of visual disorders and corneal diseases, and in the planning of vision surgery.
