[Measuring intraocular pressure by different methods]

Ophthalmologe. 2009 Aug;106(8):676-82. doi: 10.1007/s00347-009-1971-8.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Tonometry is the measurement of intraocular pressure (IOP). Normal IOP values range from 10 to 21 mmHg (15.5 mmHg+/-2 SD). They are influenced by various factors, including the patient's position during measurement, central corneal thickness, corneal diameter and curvature, rigidity of the cornea, and the cornea's state of hydration. Until now, Goldmann applanation tonometry has been seen as the gold standard for intraocular pressure measurement. But many new techniques and devices for determining IOP have been developed, such as noncontact tonometry, the Tono-Pen, the ICare tonometer, dynamic contour tonometry, TGDc-01 tonometry, and the ocular response analyzer. The aim of these techniques is to minimize distorting influences to obtain the "true IOP." Several of these methods show advantages in specific situations; however, limitations exist that should be considered when interpreting the obtained IOP results. This article describes the individual methods of measurement and discusses their advantages and disadvantages.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Humans
  • Technology Assessment, Biomedical
  • Tonometry, Ocular / instrumentation*
  • Tonometry, Ocular / methods*