I. Schipper et al., DO WE MEASURE THE RIGHT INTRAOCULAR-PRESS URE AFTER EXCIMER-LASER PRKFOR MYOPIA, Klinische Monatsblatter fur Augenheilkunde, 206(5), 1995, pp. 322-324
Background It is possible that the traditional method to determine the
intraocular pressure after excimer-Iaser PRK is inaccurate. Measuring
the pressure in the temporal part of the cornea might give the true v
alues. Methods Intraocular pressure was measured with a Goldmann Appla
nation Tonometer and with the Tonopen, before and after PRK for myopia
in the central and in the temporal parts of the cornea. The paired st
udent t-test was used for statistical analysis. Results The results of
central and temporal measurements before treatment were identical wit
h both instruments. After PRK, central values were 2 to 3 mm Hg lower
than temporal values when measured with a Goldmann Tonometer, and abou
t 2 mm lower when measured with the Tonopen. The differences were high
ly significant (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.004 respectively). Conclusious Th
e intraocular pressure measured in the usual manner after excimer-Iase
r PRK is lower than the temporally measured pressure. These difference
s could be caused by absence of the Bowman's membrane, thinning of the
cornea and/or change of its topography.