Post-cataract astigmatism with and without the use of the Terry keratometer.

Measured and induced post-cataract astigmatism was compared in 15 eyes prior to the purchase of a Terry keratometer , in 62 eyes with the keratometer , and subsequently in 36 eyes without the keratometer . All groups received the same preoperative and postoperative care. The surgical techniques were the same and were performed by a single surgeon. We found no significant difference between cases performed with and cases performed without the Terry keratometer at various postoperative gates. Seventy-five percent of the cases performed without the keratometer had less than 2 diopters of induced astigmatism, whereas 62% of the cases performed with the Terry keratometer achieved the same level of astigmatism 6 to 8 weeks postoperatively. The lack of difference between these two groups is due to biological variables which affect intraoperative readings and postoperative wound healing.