Refractive power of the cornea

Abstract

Corneal refractive surgeries, such as laser in situ keratomileusis and photorefractive keratectomy, have become some of the most commonly performed elective surgical procedures today. Many of the patients undergoing these surgeries are beginning to show signs of cataract formation and are in need of surgical correction. A common problem in the postrefractive patient is accurate prediction of the corneal power for use in intraocular lens calculation. The purpose of this article is to review the literature and to discuss why it is difficult to determine the power of the postkeratorefractive cornea, and to describe the multiple techniques used to assist in calculation of the power of the cornea. We will also examine some of the current technological advances that may aid in power calculation. With proper patient history, examination, and careful calculation(s), it is possible to closely estimate the refractive power of the postkeratorefractive cornea.