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This website discusses the possibilities of monitoring intraocular pressure in children using an EASYTON transpalpebral tonometer.
This study aims to compare the effectiveness of transpalpebral scleral tonometry (TPST) and corneal pneumotonometry in children. It sets the discomfort level associated with these intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement methods.
The study involved 42 children aged 5–14 years (average age 9.3 ± 2.7 years), including 64 myopic, 18 hyperopic, and 2 emmetropic eyes. The IOP was measured continuously using TPST and pneumotonometry. Each child’s tolerance to the procedures was recorded via a five-point questionnaire, covering discomfort, pain, fear, anxiety, and resistance during the measurement
The EASYTON transpalpebral tonometer provided consistent IOP readings with minimal variability when the same eye was measured multiple times and between paired eyes of isometropic children. The IOP readings were 18.3 ± 2.3 mmHg overall, 18.2 ± 2.3 mmHg for myopic eyes, and 18.5 ± 2.3 mmHg for hyperopic eyes.
In contrast, pneumotonometry readings were more variable: 17.1 ± 3.9 mmHg overall, 16.9 ± 3.8 mmHg for myopic eyes, and 18.2 ± 4.0 mmHg for hyperopic eyes. The comfort scores significantly favored TPST (4.64 ± 0.60) over pneumotonometry (3.85 ± 0.90) (p < 0.05).
The study indicates that TPST is a good option for pediatric IOP measurement, providing more reliable and consistent readings than pneumotonometry. The reduced variability and improved comfort associated with TPST suggest it can be better tolerated. It is a more effective method for children, potentially leading to more accurate and consistent monitoring of IOP in pediatric ophthalmic practice.
The EASYTON transpalpebral tonometer offers significant advantages in pediatric IOP monitoring, providing accurate, reliable measurements and ensuring greater comfort and cooperation from young patients. This method eliminates the confounding effects of corneal properties on IOP readings, making it a preferred choice in pediatric settings.