The spelling of the word "toric lens" can be a bit confusing, but it is derived from the Greek word "toros" which means "twisted" or "bent". The word is pronounced /ˈtɔrɪk lɛnz/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The term refers to a type of contact lens that is designed to correct astigmatism. It has a unique shape that varies in thickness across its surface to counteract the uneven curvature of the cornea. The toric lens is a popular solution for those who suffer from this common vision problem.
A toric lens is a type of corrective lens that is specially designed to correct astigmatism. Astigmatism is a common eye condition where the cornea or lens of the eye is irregularly shaped, resulting in blurred or distorted vision. Unlike regular spherical lenses, which have a uniform curvature across their surface, toric lenses have differing curvatures in different meridians. This means that they have different powers in different parts of the lens. The main purpose of a toric lens is to counteract the irregularities of the cornea or lens and provide clear vision for individuals with astigmatism.
Toric lenses are typically used in the form of contact lenses, though they can also be incorporated into glasses. They are available in both soft and rigid gas permeable materials, allowing individuals to choose the option that best suits their needs and comfort preferences. The fitting process for toric lenses involves assessing the specific needs of the individual, including the amount and orientation of the astigmatism, in order to determine the appropriate lens prescription.
Overall, toric lenses offer a tailored solution for people with astigmatism, effectively compensating for the irregularities in the shape of the eye and providing clearer, sharper vision.
• A curved lens corresponding in shape to the surface of a torus.
• A lens ground on a glass curved like the surface of a torus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "toric" comes from the Latin word "torus", meaning "a rounded or swelling form" or "a ring". The term "torus" was borrowed from Latin by English in the late 16th century to refer to a geometric shape known as a torus, which is a surface of revolution generated by revolving a circle in three-dimensional space about an axis coplanar with the circle.
In the context of lenses, a toric lens is a type of lens with different curvatures in different meridians, resembling a section of a torus. This design is commonly used in contact lenses to correct astigmatism, a condition where the cornea or lens of the eye is not evenly curved, leading to blurred vision at certain angles.
Therefore, the term "toric lens" refers to a lens that employs this torus-like shape to address astigmatism.