Perspectives on corneal topography: a review of videokeratoscopy

Abstract

This article reviews the optical principles of computer‐assisted videokeratoscopy (CVK) and provides a guide to the differences between short and long working distance systems. The description of the corneal surface involves a number of complex issues which have yet to be adequately resolved and the importance of alignment and reference axis assumptions to CVK is discussed. With the increasing clinical use of such systems, the debate of such issues has meaning, not just in the research environment but also in routine clinical practice. A number of applications are illustrated.

Key words:

• alignment
• computer‐assisted videokeratoscopy
• Placido disc