ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical utility of computerized corneal topography (CCT) in the fitting of rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses. METHODS: In this prospective study, we compared the clinically determined parameters to those obtained by CCT in 50 consecutive patients who underwent RGP lens fitting. The TMS-1 program was used for CCT, and we fit patients with Boston RGP contact lenses (type II, or Equalens). The final decision on the RGP lenses dispensed relied upon the clinical evaluation (slit lamp examination, fluorescein pattern, lens centration, and visual acuity). RESULTS: The base curve of RGP lenses proposed by CCT was similar to that selected clinically (mean: 7.74 mm versus 7.81 mm). However, the mean diameter of the CCT proposed lenses was smaller than that selected clinically (9.31 mm versus 9.6 mm, P < 0.01). Divergence was more pronounced in keratoconus. CONCLUSIONS: CCT is an important tool in RGP contact lens fitting. Clinical evaluation remains mandatory in determining the appropriate RGP lens.