SPHENOMETER Meaning and
Definition
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A sphenometer is a specialized instrument used in medical and ophthalmic fields to determine the curvature of the cornea, specifically the shape and size of its central region. The device consists of two movable arms connected at a pivot point, with each arm terminating in a blunt point that is gently placed on the cornea's surface.
The sphenometer operates on the principle that the central point of the cornea is more curved compared to its periphery. By measuring the distance between the two arms at various points across the cornea, the sphenometer can ascertain the degree of variation in corneal curvature.
Typically, sphenometers employ a sliding scale or numerical markings to allow the user to record the measurements obtained. These measurements are important in numerous medical applications, such as determining the appropriateness of contact lens fittings or evaluating the shape of the cornea prior to certain types of eye surgery, such as corneal transplants or refractive procedures.
Sphenometry, the process of using the sphenometer to measure the corneal surface, requires skilled professionals with an understanding of eye anatomy and optical principles. The accuracy of the sphenometer measurement is crucial in ensuring optimal visual outcomes and preventing complications associated with poorly fitted contact lenses or surgical interventions.
Overall, the sphenometer plays a vital role in the field of ophthalmology by providing precise measurements of corneal shape, aiding in diagnostic and treatment decision-making.
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An instrument for measuring the size of the wedge to be removed in the operation for the correction of knock-knee.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPHENOMETER
- aphenometer
- zphenometer
- xphenometer
- dphenometer
- ephenometer
- wphenometer
- sohenometer
- slhenometer
- s-henometer
- s0henometer
- spgenometer
- spbenometer
- spnenometer
- spjenometer
- spuenometer
- spyenometer
- sphwnometer
- sphsnometer
- sphdnometer
- sphrnometer
Etymology of SPHENOMETER
The word "sphenometer" is derived from two Greek roots: "sphēn" meaning "wedge" and "metron" meaning "measure". In Greek, "sphēn" relates to a wedge-shaped object or a diagonal line, while "metron" signifies a tool or instrument for measuring. Thus, the combination of these roots forms "sphenometer" as a term for an instrument used to measure angles or distances, particularly in medicine and dentistry.
