Which process is useful for measuring corneal astigmatism?

Keratometry is the process specifically designed for measuring the curvature of the cornea, which is essential in evaluating corneal astigmatism. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea has an uneven shape, leading to blurred or distorted vision. Keratometry utilizes a device that projects light onto the cornea and measures the reflection, allowing the practitioner to determine the power and shape of the cornea. This is crucial for accurately diagnosing astigmatism and planning for corrective measures, such as the fitting of contact lenses or preparing for refractive surgery.

Ophthalmoscopy is primarily used to examine the interior of the eye, including the retina, and is not focused on measuring corneal curvature. Tonometry measures intraocular pressure and is used to assess the risk of glaucoma, while keratoscopy, although related to corneal measurements and capable of mapping the corneal surface, is more advanced and not the standard method for simply measuring astigmatism. Thus, keratometry stands out as the most direct and effective method for acquiring the necessary measurements to evaluate corneal astigmatism.