Best Pachymetry Hospital in India

What is pachymetry?

Pachymetry is a medical procedure used to measure the thickness of the cornea—the clear front surface of the eye.

Why is corneal thickness important?

Corneal thickness is crucial in diagnosing and managing various eye conditions, such as glaucoma and corneal diseases.

How is pachymetry performed?

Pachymetry can be done using ultrasound or optical methods. Ultrasound pachymetry utilises sound waves, while optical pachymetry employs light.

What are the different types of pachymeters?

There are handheld pachymeters, which are portable devices, and non-contact pachymeters, which measure corneal thickness without touching the eye.

What are the indications for pachymetry?

Pachymetry is commonly used prior to refractive surgeries to monitor glaucoma patients and to evaluate corneal diseases, among other indications.

What is the normal range of corneal thickness?

The average corneal thickness in humans is around 550 to 570 micrometres (μm), with slight variations based on age and other factors.

How does pachymetry help in glaucoma management?

Thinner corneas can influence intraocular pressure measurements. Pachymetry assists in adjusting these readings for accurate glaucoma diagnosis and treatment.

Can pachymetry detect corneal diseases?

Yes, pachymetry aids in identifying corneal conditions like keratoconus, corneal oedema, and Fuchs' dystrophy by measuring abnormal corneal thickness patterns.

Is pachymetry used in refractive surgeries?

Yes, pachymetry is crucial before procedures like LASIK and PRK to ensure there is sufficient corneal thickness for the surgery.

Does pachymetry have any contraindications?

Pachymetry is generally safe, but caution is necessary in cases of severe eye infections, corneal ulcers, or active corneal diseases.

How long does a pachymetry procedure take?

Pachymetry is a quick procedure, typically taking less than a minute to measure corneal thickness accurately.

Can pachymetry be uncomfortable?

Pachymetry is a non-invasive procedure and is generally well-tolerated by patients, causing minimal discomfort or no discomfort at all.

Are there any risks or complications associated with pachymetry?

Pachymetry is considered safe, with no significant risks or complications reported. Rarely, temporary eye irritation or redness may occur.

Can pachymetry measurements vary between different devices?

Yes, there may be slight variations in measurements between different pachymetry devices due to variations in technology and calibration.

Are there any factors that can affect pachymetry measurements?

Factors like corneal hydration, previous eye surgeries, contact lens wear, and certain medications may affect corneal thickness measurements.

Can pachymetry be used in monitoring corneal swelling?

Yes, pachymetry is useful in assessing corneal oedema by measuring the thickness changes in the cornea over time.

Is pachymetry only performed by ophthalmologists?

Pachymetry can be performed by ophthalmologists, optometrists, or trained technicians under the supervision of eye care professionals.

Can pachymetry be used for research purposes?

Pachymetry is frequently used in research studies to investigate various aspects of corneal thickness and its relationship to ocular conditions.

Can pachymetry measurements be affected by corneal irregularities?

Yes, corneal irregularities, such as scars or deformities, can impact pachymetry measurements, potentially leading to less accurate results.

Is pachymetry covered by insurance?

Pachymetry is typically covered by insurance when performed for medically necessary reasons, such as glaucoma management or corneal disease evaluation. However, coverage may vary depending on the insurance provider and specific policy.