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Noncontact tonometry in children
M Buscemi1, C Capoferri, A Garavaglia
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Milan, San Raffaele Hospital, Italy.
Insights
The Pulsair noncontact tonometer effectively measured intraocular pressure in children, proving more successful than the Goldman tonometer. This device shows promise for pediatric eye screening and monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Accurate intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement is crucial for diagnosing and managing pediatric eye conditions.
- Traditional tonometry methods can be challenging in young children due to cooperation difficulties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and usability of the Pulsair hand-held noncontact tonometer in a pediatric population.
- To compare the success rate of the Pulsair tonometer with the Goldman applanation tonometer in children.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 42 children (5 months to 12 years) underwent intraocular pressure measurement using the Pulsair tonometer.
- Success rates and time required for examination were recorded.
- Comparison was made with measurements obtained using the Goldman applanation tonometer.
Main Results:
- The Pulsair tonometer successfully obtained at least one intraocular pressure reading in all 84 eyes studied.
- In contrast, the Goldman tonometer yielded measurements in only 26 eyes (14 subjects).
- Examination time and compliance with the Pulsair tonometer were significantly related to the child's age.
Conclusions:
- The Pulsair noncontact tonometer demonstrates a higher success rate for intraocular pressure measurement in children compared to the Goldman applanation tonometer.
- Despite variable examination times, compliance was generally good and age-dependent.
- The Pulsair tonometer is a potentially valuable tool for childhood eye screening and follow-up assessments.
Abstract:
A hand-held noncontact tonometer (Pulsair, Keeler Ltd., UK) was tested in 42 children, from 5 months to 12 years of age. At least 1 intraocular pressure (IOP) reading was obtained in all of the 84 eyes studied, whereas with a Goldman applanation tonometer measurements could be obtained in only 26 eyes (14 subjects). Time required for examination with the Pulsair was quite variable and related to age (p less than 0.0001). Compliance in children was reported as "good" in the majority of cases; it was also age-related (p less than 0.005). Although its reliability could not be definitely evaluated, the results of this study indicate that this instrument may be a valuable choice for screening and follow-up purposes in childhood.