Corneal topography is a special imaging method that examines the surface structure, curvature and thickness of the cornea, the transparent layer at the front of the eye. Pentacam is an advanced imaging device that scans the cornea three-dimensionally and collects thousands of data from both the front and back surfaces.
Why is Corneal Topography (Pentacam) Performed?
- Suitability assessment before laser eye surgery (LASIK, PRK, No-Touch)
- Suspicion of keratoconus or corneal thinning
- Determining contact lens suitability
- Intraocular lens surgery planning
- Checks before and after cornea transplantation
- Investigation of surface defects in sudden or unexplained decreases in visual quality
How Does Pentacam Work?
Pentacam scans the front area of the eye in seconds with a 360° rotating camera, using a special technology called the Scheimpflug Camera System. It sends thin rings of blue light onto the cornea and analyzes the reflections to create the corneal thickness, front and back surface curvatures and symmetry in three dimensions.
How to Make Pentacam?
The process is quite simple and takes a few seconds. The patient sits in front of the device and looks fixedly at the small blue light in the middle. During the test, the eye is not touched and no pain is felt. Those who wear contact lenses should remove them 2 days (soft) or 1 week (hard) before the measurement.
Benefits of Corneal Topography
- Provides safe planning in laser eye surgeries
- It is effective in the early diagnosis of corneal diseases
- Creates a three-dimensional map of the cornea
- Provides comparative measurement in situations requiring follow-up
- It is a completely painless, contactless and fast procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is corneal topography mandatory before laser surgery?
Yes. Corneal topography is one of the most critical tests that determine suitability for laser surgery. Detection of inappropriate corneal structure protects the patient from possible risks.
What is the difference between Pentacam and standard topography?
While standard topography devices only examine the front surface of the cornea, Pentacam also evaluates the back surface. This feature provides a great advantage in the early diagnosis of corneal thinning diseases such as keratoconus.
What should I do before Pentacam if I wear contact lenses?
You should remove soft contact lenses at least 2 days before the measurement and hard (gas permeable) lenses 1 week before the measurement.
