IMECE2011-64852 TRANS-SCLERAL TONOMETRY: MECHANICAL PALPATION OF THE EYE

The development of new tonometers requires laboratory tests on enucleated eyes where the intraocular pressure (IOP) is usually controlled by the use of a fluid column (manometry). This article describes a novel eye pressure regulation system for IOP tests along with a new concept of mechanical palpation tonome-try. Manometry is commonly regarded as an invasive technique that can measure precisely the pressure inside the eye. It is a common laboratory technique for evaluating changes in IOP over time, and for providing reference pressure by which all other tonometers can be evaluated. In general, the system consists of a fluid column (1 % saline solution) connected via PVC tubing to a three way valve. The valve is able to connect the column branch to a syringe with a 21G needle inserted into the vitreous humor and to a pressure transducer. The syringe needle is inserted i