[Equivalency of different methods of measuring lens power].

Mathematical error analysis shows that the prognosis of IOL powers on the basis of theoretical optical formulas for calculating lens power is no more accurate than the regression (SRK) formula. The minimum error in a recommended lens power is at present between +/- 0.6 and +/- 1.0 D. As a result of this range of error there is a range of equivalence of the two formulas, and the vast majority of cataract patients (85%) are within this range. However, in hyperopic eyes the SRK formula is clearly superior to the theoretical optical formulas for a clinically useful prognosis.