From the March 1998 issue of the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery

The above reference to the Alpins method appeared in the March 1998 issue of the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. According to the editors of JCRS, the Alpins method is a "more advanced" approach suitable for the reporting of refractive surgical data in the scientific literature. At a time when leaders in the field are calling for standardization in the reporting of refractive surgical results, the editorial assumes great significance.

The Alpins method of astigmatism analysis, as included in the ASSORT outcomes analysis program:

• Allows statistical analysis of the separate components of refractive surgery; for example, magnitude of astigmatic correction and meridian of treatment

• Calculates correction index, coefficient of adjustment, angle of error and other parameters for the refinement of future procedures

• Determines minimal achievable astigmatism (ocular residual astigmatism) and treatment settings for 100% emphasis on refraction, 100% emphasis on topography or any combination equaling 100% preferred by the surgeon

• Computes optimal treatment for individual eyes based on Alpins' published parameters, thereby contributing a rational, systematic approach to the many patients whose refractive and topographic astigmatism do not coincide in magnitude and/or axis

• Provides separate treatment settings for both hemidivisions of the cornea in cases of irregular astigmatism based on customizable targets and strategies

• Offers optimized placement of cataract incisions and analysis of outcome based on meridian of incision placement

For a description of the Alpins method, click here.

For more on the ASSORT program, click here.

The Alpins Method Home Page