Tonometry
Measurement of eye pressure follows the slitlamp examination. This test, also known as tonometry, is important in the assessment of glaucoma because eye pressure may be the single most important factor that affects the course of the disease. Its accurate measurement is therefore essential.
To measure eye pressure, an anaesthetic drop is placed on the eye. The drop briefly stings and, within a few seconds, the surface of the eye is temporarily numbed. Eye pressure can then be measured with a device known as a tonometer
(Figure 5). For this measurement, the tip of the tonometer is gently placed upon the eye. You may feel it near your eyelashes. This procedure is quick, reliable and painless. Seeral other methods of measuring eye pressure are sometimes used. One of these, an “air puff” tonometer, is less accurate, but eye drops are not required.
