Tonometer yields accurate IOP measurements for inexperienced users

J Glaucoma. 2011;20(2):74-79.

Inexperienced users of a rebound tonometer achieved IOP measurements that were accurate and reproducible, a study found.

Technicians measured the IOP of 100 glaucoma patients with the ICare rebound tonometer before the patients measured their own IOP with the device. A second trained technician took an additional IOP measurement with Goldmann applanation tonometry.

According to the study, 82 of the patient and technician ICare readings were within 3 mm Hg of each other, and 75 of the patient ICare and technician Goldmann applanation tonometry measurements were within 3 mm Hg of each other.

Of the patients, 84% achieved an error-free measurement in one attempt, and 13% required two attempts, the study said.

The ICare tonometer is priced around $3,900, which could limit its home use. However, the study authors suggested that glaucoma specialists could loan it to patients who require aggressive monitoring.

"IOP readings provided by the ICare tonometer are both reliable and reproducible. Its recent U.S. FDA approval, its gentle learning curve and the absence of need for an anesthetic make it ideal for use by the patient," the authors said.