Pentacam

The Pentacam is a non‑contact diagnostic device that uses a rotating Scheimpflug camera to create detailed 3‑D tomographic maps of the eye’s anterior segment. It measures anterior and posterior corneal curvature, pachymetry (thickness), anterior chamber depth/volume, lens clarity and elevation maps. Results aid keratoconus screening, refractive‑surgery planning, intraocular lens calculations and monitoring corneal disease and post‑operative outcomes.

The Pentacam uses a rotating Scheimpflug camera with a slit illumination beam to capture multiple angled cross-sectional images of the anterior eye. These images are reconstructed into a 3D tomographic map of corneal topography, pachymetry, anterior chamber depth, and lens profiles. The Scheimpflug geometry minimizes optical distortion at steep angles, enabling accurate measurements for diagnosis and surgical planning.

Pentacam is an optical tomography device, not just topography. Using a rotating Scheimpflug camera it acquires 3‑D images of the anterior segment, providing true tomography—pachymetry, anterior and posterior corneal elevation, curvature, and anterior chamber measurements. Although it produces topographic-style maps, its main advantage is volumetric assessment (including posterior surface and thickness), unlike placido-based topographers.

OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) is a high-resolution, cross-sectional imaging technique using light interference to visualize retinal layers, optic nerve head, and anterior segment (AS-OCT) for macular, glaucoma, and retinal pathology. Pentacam is a rotating Scheimpflug camera that maps anterior segment anatomy—corneal topography, thickness (pachymetry), anterior chamber depth and lens density—used mainly for refractive surgery planning and corneal disease.

Pentacam corneal tomography costs vary by country and clinic. Typical private fees: India ~₹1,000–3,000; United Kingdom (private) ~£40–£150; United States ~$100–$300. Prices depend on location, clinic, whether bundled with consultation or surgical workup, and any insurance coverage. Some clinics offer package pricing for pre-operative assessments that can change the single-test fee.

An eye ultrasound (B‑scan) uses sound waves to image internal eye structures when direct view is blocked or unclear. It evaluates the retina and vitreous for detachment, hemorrhage, opacities, tumors, foreign bodies, or trauma, and measures axial length for surgical planning. It’s a quick, non‑invasive, painless test that helps diagnose conditions and guide treatment when standard examination or imaging is limited.