To assess the performance of the dynamic contour tonometer (DCT) in eyes undergoing excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).
MethodsIntraocular pressure (IOP) was measured in 30 eyes after first time excimer laser PRK pre and three months post operatively using Goldmann applanation tonometer (GAT), noncontact air tonometer (NCT), and the DCT.
ResultsThere was significant correlation between central corneal thickness (CCT) and IOP measurements by GAT and NCT (CCT vs GAT: r2=0.31, p <0.01, CCT vs NCT: r2=0.39, p <0.01). However, the correlation between CCT and IOP measurements by DCT was not significant (CCT vs DCT: r2=0.14, p=0.32). After PRK, the mean change in CCT and IOP measurements using GAT, NCT, DCT were 73.70±26.92 µm (mean±SD), 2.43±2.86 mmHg ( p <0.01), 3.83±2.34 mmHg ( p <0.01) and 0.44±1.51 mmHg ( p =0.125), respectively. The preoperative and postoperative DCT measurements did not differ significantly.
ConclusionsThe reduction in CCT induced by PRK doesn't appear to influence DCT measurements; therefore, DCT may be better suited over GAT or NCT for monitoring IOP in eyes that underwent refractive surgery.