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Microaerosol formation in noncontact 'air-puff' tonometry
J M Britt1, B C Clifton, H S Barnebey
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle 98195.
Archives of Ophthalmology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|February 1, 1991
Summary
Noncontact tonometry uses an air puff to measure eye pressure, but it can disperse potentially infectious droplets from the tear film. This challenges the assumption that air-puff tonometry is a completely aseptic procedure.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Disease Control
- Medical Device Sterilization
Background:
- Sterilization of contact tonometers is crucial to prevent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other viral transmissions via tears.
- Noncontact tonometry, using pressurized air, was considered a sterile alternative, eliminating the need for disinfection procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential for aerosolization and dispersion of tear film during noncontact tonometry.
- To assess the aseptic nature of air-puff tonometry in light of potential viral contamination in ocular fluids.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a camera and flash system to capture the corneal profile during noncontact tonometry.
- Examined tear film dynamics and microaerosol formation using two types of noncontact tonometers: American Optical Non-Contact II and Keeler Pulsair.
Main Results:
- Observed tear film dehiscence and microaerosol formation in most eyes during the noncontact tonometry procedure.
- Demonstrated the dispersal of droplets, potentially carrying viruses like HIV, from the eye's surface.
Conclusions:
- Noncontact tonometry, or 'air-puff' tonometry, may not be as aseptic as previously assumed due to aerosol generation.
- The findings raise concerns about potential viral transmission risks associated with noncontact tonometry procedures.