Sectorial and annular quantitative area pachymetry with the Orbscan II

Abstract

Purpose: To present a new application of quantitative area pachymetry of the cornea.

Methods: Sectorial quantitative area pachymetry of small corneal zones located at the center and surrounding areas is possible by means of the statistical analysis device and tools menu of Orbscan II (Bausch and Lomb).

Results: Average pachymetry of 1 central zone and 12 small zones around the center may be shown in the pachymetry map by simply formatting the system. Average pachymetry, standard deviation, rate of thickness variation (slope), and volume of analyzed annular corneal zone can also be automatically shown in a data window. The examination results can be printed and kept on record.

Conclusions: The method is simple and descriptive. This type of preoperative evaluation may guide the manual or laser preparation of channels for intracorneal segments and the corneal trephination for lamellar or penetrating keratoplasty.