The accuracy of multimeridional refraction.

The accuracy of meridional refraction using equally spaced preselected meridians was investigated by using populations of computer-simulated patients. The number of meridians refracted, patient refractive error, and the coarseness of phoroptor steps were varied. Results indicate that the accuracy of meridional refraction is independent of the relative orientation of the axis of the patient's astigmatism and the preselected meridians, that little is to be gained by use of a phoropter with steps finer than the usual 0.25 D, and that with a sufficient number of meridians, meridional refraction can be as accurate as more conventional techniques.