Tonometry

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Tonometry is a diagnostic test that measures the pressure inside your eye, which is called intraocular pressure (IOP). This measurement can help your doctor determine whether you are at risk of developing glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that can cause blindness by damaging the optic nerve.

Types of Tonometry[edit | edit source]

There are several types of tonometry tests, including:

  • Applanation Tonometry: This test measures the force required to flatten a certain portion of the cornea. A numbing drop is usually placed in your eye for this test.
  • Non-contact Tonometry: This method uses a puff of air to estimate the pressure in your eye. No numbing drop is required with this method.
  • Pneumatonometry: This test is often used for patients with corneal scarring, corneal edema, or an irregular corneal surface. It uses a small probe containing a pressure sensor to measure IOP.
  • Schiotz Tonometry: This method uses a small instrument called a tonometer that is placed on the surface of the eye. This type of tonometry is not used as frequently due to less accurate results.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

During tonometry, numbing eye drops are applied to your eye. Then, the doctor or a trained technician uses a device called a tonometer to measure the intraocular pressure. The tonometer can either touch the cornea directly, or a puff of air can be directed onto your eye.

Risks and Complications[edit | edit source]

Tonometry is a safe procedure with minimal risks. Some people may feel a little discomfort during the test, especially when the tonometer comes into contact with the eye, but the discomfort should be minimal and short-lived. The most common complication is a temporary blurring of vision.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Tonometry Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD