Slit Lamp Evaluation

Despite the introduction of sophisticated equipment in Tissue Evaluation, the SLIT LAMP continues to remain the most important tool for corneal evaluation. It is very much a part & parcel of routine corneal evaluation, including both whole eyeball and the excised corneal button in the media. A SLIT LAMP is an ophthalmological tool consisting of a microscope combined with a rectangular light source that can be narrowed into a slit. Primarily it helps us to determine the suitability of tissue for surgical use. It enables the technician to study the layers of the cornea individually (epithelium, stroma & endothelium), bringing to limelight the intricate flaws in the tissue and allowing us to inspect the surface and the deeper layers thoroughly. Corneal defects can be examined with greater accuracy and more detail. It can reveal earlier stages of corneal pathology much better than are visible grossly. Last but not the least it is especially valuable in Qualitative Assessment of the health of the endothelium, which is a critical factor for corneal transplant.