Overview

Corneal Topography is a diagnostic procedure used to map the surface curvature of the cornea. It is essential for diagnosing keratoconus, planning refractive surgery, and fitting contact lenses.

Corneal topography is crucial for detecting corneal irregularities, monitoring keratoconus progression, and planning surgical interventions.

Indications

Keratoconus

Diagnosis and monitoring

Refractive Surgery Planning

Pre-operative assessment

Astigmatism

Assessment and management

Contact Lens Fitting

Custom lens design

Corneal Irregularities

Detection and monitoring

Contraindications

Absolute Contraindications

Patient refusal

Relative Contraindications

Severe corneal opacity
Recent eye surgery

📋 Equipment Checklist

Check off items as you gather them:

Pre-procedure Preparation

Preparation includes explaining the procedure to patient, ensuring proper positioning, and calibrating the topographer.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Patient Preparation

Explain procedure, position patient, calibrate topographer.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Inadequate explanation
  • Poor positioning

💡 Pro Tip:

Explain that the test is non-contact.

Step 2: Image Acquisition

Acquire corneal maps, ensure good fixation.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor fixation
  • Blinking

💡 Pro Tip:

Instruct patient to blink before scan.

Step 3: Map Review

Review maps for quality and completeness.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor review

💡 Pro Tip:

Repeat if needed.

Step 4: Documentation

Document findings and compare with previous.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor documentation

💡 Pro Tip:

Always compare with previous maps.

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Post-procedure Care

Post-procedure care involves reviewing maps, documenting findings, and comparing with previous studies.

Complications & Management

Complication Incidence Signs Management Prevention
Poor image quality 5-10% Blurry maps Repeat scan Good fixation
Patient anxiety Common Poor cooperation Reassurance Good explanation

Clinical Pearls

💡

Explain that the test is non-contact.

🎯

Instruct patient to blink before scan.

Repeat if needed for quality.

📊

Always compare with previous maps.

⚠️

Document all findings carefully.