© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
Corneal hysteresis determination is a specialized diagnostic test that assesses the biomechanical properties of the cornea, which is the transparent front part of the eye. This procedure utilizes air impulse stimulation to evaluate how the cornea responds to pressure changes. During the test, an air pump generates a brief air impulse that causes the cornea to temporarily flatten or depress, moving inward from its usual convex shape. Following this initial flattening, the air pump ceases operation, allowing the cornea to return to its original shape. The test measures the rate of this movement through two distinct phases of flattening and the subsequent return to the normal convex configuration. The time delays observed during these phases are quantified and referred to as hysteresis. This measurement is crucial as it provides insights into the corneal health and can be indicative of various ocular conditions. The procedure is performed bilaterally, meaning both eyes are tested simultaneously, and includes an interpretation of the results along with a comprehensive report for further clinical evaluation.
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