Pascal dynamic contour tonometry versus goldmann applanation tonometry in gas and air-filled eyes after vitrectomy surgery.

Retina 29(4):481-6 (2009) PMID 18936717

PURPOSE: To compare Pascal Dynamic Contour Tonometry with Goldmann Applanation Tonometry in eyes after vitrectomy surgery with intraocular tamponade of air, silicone oil or perfluorocarbon gas. METHODS: Prospective clinical comparative study. Eighty-two consecutive patients undergoing vitrectomy surgery with postoperative air, gas or oil tamponade were recruited. Intraocular pressure was measured with both devices. RESULTS: Mean Goldmann intraocular pressure was 16.6 mmHg (range, 1.0-46.0; SD = 8.80) and the mean Pascal intraocular pressure was 21.70 (range, 4.7-58.5; SD = 9.8) The mean difference between the Pascal and Goldmann readings was 5.09 mmHg (range, -14.7 to +12.9; 95% CI = 4.2-6.0; SD, 4.0; P < 0.001). Mean differences for the different tamponades were 5.09 mmHg for silicone oil, 4.02 mmHg for air, and 5.38 mmHg for perfluorocarbon gas. CONCLUSION: Pascal dynamic contour tonometry gives readings that are highly correlated with Goldmann applanation tonometry, but on average 5 mmHg higher in eyes after vitrectomy surgery with air, gas or silicone oil tamponades. The difference between Goldmann and Pascal readings does not appear to be altered by the presence of a scleral buckle, or the size of the intraocular gas bubble.