A clinical comparison of dynamic contour tonometry versus Goldmann applanation tonometry.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To compare the intraocular pressures (IOP) obtained with dynamic contour tonometry (DCT) and Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) and to determine the dependency of both devices on corneal structure.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

One hundred forty eyes of 70 patients were included. Cases with corneal pathologies, former glaucoma diagnosis, and systemic diseases were excluded. All eyes underwent measurements of central corneal thickness (CCT) and corneal curvature. IOP measurements were obtained with GAT and DCT. The agreement of measurements was statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

The correlation of IOP values obtained with DCT and GAT was statistically significant. The mean DCT values were 0.46 ± 2.55 mm Hg higher than those of GAT, but this difference was statistically insignificant. Bland-Altman plots showed reasonable inter-method agreement between DCT and GAT measurements. GAT readings were significantly affected by CCT, but DCT measurements were affected by age and corneal curvature.

CONCLUSION

DCT is a reliable method of assessing IOP and is less dependent on central corneal thickness. This new technology may be a promising step forward in the management of glaucoma. Further studies are required to validate these observations.