What is the name of the instrument used to measure the thickness of the cornea?

The instrument used to measure the thickness of the cornea is known as a pachymeter. This device is specifically designed to assess corneal thickness, which is an important factor in various eye conditions, particularly in the diagnosis and management of glaucoma as well as in evaluating candidates for refractive surgery.

Pachymetry is crucial for understanding the structural integrity of the cornea and monitoring changes that could affect vision or the overall health of the eye. The measurements taken can help eye care professionals determine whether an individual is at risk for ocular diseases that could lead to vision loss.

Other instruments listed in the options serve different purposes. For example, tonometry measures the pressure inside the eye to assess the risk for glaucoma, while an ophthalmoscope is used for examining the interior structures of the eye, including the retina and optic nerve. A perimeter is employed for visual field testing to evaluate a person's peripheral vision. Each of these devices plays a vital role in ophthalmic examinations, but the pachymeter is uniquely suited for determining corneal thickness.