The new monograph of 'l'Oculista Italiano
The volume "ASTIGMATISM know, understand, correct".which contains a series of contributions from leading opinion leaders in refractive cataract surgery, and a foreword with an interesting cover story by Vittorio Picardo, eye surgeon who acted as editor of the volumeoffers a broad overview of astigmatism, from general notions to diagnostic and treatment strategies.
In particular, the first six chapters provide the Specialist with insights into the instrumental diagnosisthrough support with images and operating principles of diagnostic methods, on the clinical and optical correction of astigmatism through the use of contact lenses or spectacles and the impact of this disorder on the visual developmentfinally introducing the solutions and possible problems related to the laser and ocular microsurgery.
Then, from chapter seven, the authors went into more detail on the refractive cataract surgeryaddressing both topics related to the pre-operative phasewhere patient assessment is crucial, as well as those concerning thesurgical event and the post-operative. Certainly, the central protagonist of this last section is the Toric IOLThis is because the choice of the most suitable and at the same time best performing lens requires a complex multifactorial decision-making process on the part of the specialist. On the final phase of the astigmatism correction pathway, the authors devote three chapters focusing on thelens implantation, on the modalities and timing of the ex-post evaluation and the only risk of this procedure, namely the possibility of lens rotation.
Concluding the monograph are two interesting insights, the first on the possibility of combination of toric IOL implantation with vitreo-retinal surgery (cataract extraction and implantation of toric IOLs and vitrectomy via pars plana), and the second on the different international experiences with innovative ways of treating astigmatism.
"The Italian Ophthalmologist therefore offers the specialist this important tool for scientific investigation of astigmatism, a visual defect with a considerable impact on the quality of vision, in order to support him/her in research and knowledge of new perspectives that can improve the patient's quality of life.
Dr. Carmelo Chines
Direttore responsabile