An A-Scan and Pachymeter is a combined ophthalmic ultrasound device that measures the eye's internal structures (axial length, lens thickness, anterior chamber depth) for IOL power calculation (A-Scan) and measures central corneal thickness (CCT) for glaucoma assessment (Pachymeter), offering crucial data for cataract surgery planning and glaucoma management using sound waves for fast, non-invasive, accurate results.
A-Scan & Pachymeter
Overview
A-Scan (Amplitude Scan)
- What it is: An ultrasound biometer measuring the eye's length from cornea to retina.
- How it works: A 10MHz probe sends ultrasound waves, creating spikes from different structures (cornea, lens, retina) to determine distances.
- Purpose: Primarily for cataract surgery to calculate the power of the intraocular lens (IOL) needed.
- Key Measurements: Axial Length (AL), Anterior Chamber Depth (ACD), Lens Thickness.
- Modes: Contact (probe touches eye) or Immersion (probe in fluid bath for more accuracy).
Pachymeter (Corneal Thickness Measurement)
- What it is: Measures the thickness of the cornea.
- How it works: The A-Scan probe takes readings of the front and back corneal surfaces.
- Purpose: Detects glaucoma (thinner corneas can affect IOP readings), monitors corneal health.
- Advantages: Quick, easy for staff to learn, portable, highly accurate.