Some Experiments in Corneal Interferometry

Abstract

Attempts were made to determine the thickness and variations of thickness of the pre-corneal film by means of interference fringes. A known technique proved relatively simple to apply but only gave information about the superficial oily layer of the pre-corneal film. Experiments intended to produce interference fringes formed across the whole of the film thickness on the anterior side of a hard corneal lens proved inconclusive but nevertheless useful, as movement of fluid in and out of the lens fenestration was observed by means of the fringes apparently formed in the superficial oily layer. Fleeting glimpses were obtained of fringes formed by the anterior surface of the pre-corneal film when the eye (in vivo) was positioned in a two-beam Interferometer. It is concluded that advances in experimental technlques may allow measurements of corneal topography for the purpose of contact lens fitting and raytracing through the cornea.