Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for obtaining the corneal topography of an object using computer analyzed rasterstereographic images. The object may be nontransparent and diffusing, or it may be transparent and nondiffusing, such as a cornea. Rasterstereographic images of a cornea are produced by staining the cornea with a fluorescein solution which projects a light and dark line pattern onto the cornea through a grid. When obtaining the topography of a cornea, several different filters are used for producing and obtaining a grid image. An image processor uses unique software to store and analyze data extracted from the grid pattern. A video camera, an illuminator, the filters, and the grid may be mounted on a microscope.

Abstract: Irrigation-aspiration fluid flow systems, including the electronic controls therefor, are disclosed for use with surgical removal of a cataracted lens of an eye of a human or animal. Irrigation flow is provided by gravitational forces and is primarily controlled thereby. Aspiration flow is accomplished by a vacuum pump in conjunction with high and low pressure relief valves. The system provides for purging of air from the irrigation and aspiration flow lines prior to surgery. Flashing pilot lights and on-off pilot lights indicate the readiness of the system for use during surgery and assures that the proper mode of operation will be achieved upon activation of a foot switch controlled by the operating surgeon.