Related Experiment Videos
Clinical evaluation of five portable tonometers
T A Wingert1, C J Bassi, W H McAlister
1University of Missouri, St. Louis School of Optometry 63121, USA.
Journal of the American Optometric Association
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Portable tonometers can accurately measure intraocular pressure (IOP), with results comparable to Goldmann tonometry. Some devices slightly underestimate IOP, but this can be corrected for clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Intraocular pressure (IOP) is a critical metric in diagnosing and managing glaucoma.
- Accurate IOP measurement is essential for effective patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the accuracy of five portable tonometers against Goldmann tonometry.
- To determine if portable tonometers can replace Goldmann tonometry in clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- 31 patients (59 eyes) underwent IOP measurement using Goldmann, Keeler Pulsair 2000, Tomey Pro-Ton, Tono-Pen XL, Perkins, and Shiotz tonometers.
- Goldmann tonometry was performed first, followed by randomized portable tonometer measurements.
- Statistical analyses included correlation, regression, and comparison of mean differences.
Main Results:
- All portable tonometers demonstrated significant correlation with Goldmann IOP measurements (r=0.66 to 0.75).
- Three devices (Tono-Pen XL, Shiotz, Pro-Ton) showed a statistically significant underestimation of Goldmann IOP.
- Regression equations and mean differences varied slightly between devices.
Conclusions:
- Portable tonometers provide accurate IOP predictions comparable to Goldmann tonometry.
- Underestimation by certain portable devices can be addressed through calibration or regression analysis.
- Portable tonometers offer a viable alternative to Goldmann tonometry in specific clinical scenarios.