A hand-held keratometer

Using model eyes the sensitivity to orientation of an Alcon hand-held autokeratometer was assessed after calibration with steel balls. It was concluded that the keratometer should be used in a vertical position (6:00/12:00) in order for axis references to be accurate. Corneal curvature of optometry students was measured using the autokeratometer and a Bausch and Lomb keratometer. The results showed that the autokeratometer was similar to the Bausch and Lomb keratometer in measuring the vertical and horizontal principal meridians, and the axis of the vertical principal meridian. This hand-held keratometer is useful for screening purposss and measuring corneas of infants.