Preoperative Tests

Various testing and measurements will be taken at your appointment to ensure the overall health of your eyes. Specific measurements will be taken that directly applies to your cataract and potential surgery. These tests are:

Refraction and visual acuity

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a device used to scan the retina and optic nerve head, identifying any abnormalities in these structures. This examination is especially crucial for diabetic patients and individuals with age-related macular degeneration.

ARGOS biometry is an advanced measurement technique essential for determining the appropriate power of the intraocular lens (IOL) to be implanted during cataract surgery. It assesses the axial length, anterior chamber depth of your eye, and the fundamental curvature of your cornea, providing crucial data required for the procedure.

Corneal Topography (not covered by AHC): An optional test, computerized, high-definition map of the anterior curvature and shape of the cornea, which can affect decisions for surgical planning, i.e., where the surgical corneal wound can be made for best visual outcome, and to decide about Toric IOLs. Occasionally the tear film may be inadequate or distorted, resulting in inaccurate corneal topography results due to dry eyes. Patients may need special drops to increase the volume or quality of the tear film.