Intermediate
Technical
IVT
Corneal topography
Diagnostic imaging technique that maps the curvature and surface irregularities of the cornea for surgical planning.
Full Definition
Corneal topography is a non-invasive imaging technique that creates detailed maps of the corneal surface curvature and elevation. This diagnostic tool is essential for planning refractive surgery, detecting corneal diseases like keratoconus, and monitoring post-surgical healing. The technology uses various methods including Placido disk reflection, Scheimpflug imaging, or optical coherence tomography to generate precise measurements that guide surgical decision-making and lens selection.
Usage
Usage note: Always lowercase except when beginning a sentence. Often abbreviated as 'topo' in informal clinical notes.
In Context
- "Preoperative corneal topography revealed irregular astigmatism that contraindicated standard LASIK." — Surgical consultation note
- "The corneal topography showed significant steepening in the inferior paracentral zone." — Diagnostic report
Also known as
corneal mapping
videokeratography
Don't confuse with
corneal pachymetry
specular microscopy