Use of disposable prism tonometry in routine clinical practice

Aim To establish the reliability, efficacy, and safety of disposable prism tonometry and validate its routine use for screening as well as monitoring of glaucoma. Methodology Intraocular pressure (IOP) of 400 eyes of 200 consecutive patients who attended the general ophthalmic clinic was checked with both the Goldmann applanation tonometer and a disposable tonometer prism by an experienced examiner after obtaining informed consent. The data were statistically analysed. Results The mean difference in the IOP between the two types of prisms was 0.1mmHg ( SD +/- 1 mmHg). Conclusion Disposable prism tonometry provides a reliable, effective, and safe alternative to Goldmann reusable prism tonometry for routine screening as well as monitoring of glaucoma with the advantages of eliminating the need for chemical disinfection and therefore eliminating the risk of crossinfection.