Bearing fixing: A new computer algorithm method for subjective determination of astigmatism.

PURPOSE: This article aims to illustrate the principles of bearing fixing, a new computer-controlled procedure for subjective determination of astigmatism, and to compare it with conventional clinician-controlled Jackson crossed-cylinder refraction.

METHODS

The principles and method for bearing fixing are described. Astigmatism was measured using bearing fixing and Jackson cross-cylinder twice on 20 visually normal participants aged between 18 and 34 years. After final sphere adjustment, acuity measurements were made with each refraction estimate.

RESULTS

Bearing fixing results could be obtained for all participants. Mean bearing fixing cylinder magnitude was slightly higher than Jackson cross-cylinder measures of cylinder magnitude, by 0.05D. Using vector analysis to take into account cylinder power and axis, mean bearing fixing astigmatism was not significantly different from cross-cylinder astigmatism, but did have higher test-retest variability (p < 0.05). Acuity with bearing fixing and cross-cylinder corrections did not significantly differ in average value or repeatability.

CONCLUSIONS

Bearing fixing is a feasible method for subjective determination of astigmatism, and there are a number of potential improvements to the method which could make it faster and more precise.