Goldmann applanation tonometry measurements are affected by the central corneal thickness (CCT). When Goldmann designed his tonometer, he estimated an average corneal thickness of 520 microns to cancel the opposing forces of surface tension and corneal rigidity to allow indentation. Wide variation exists in corneal thickness among individuals. Thicker CCT may give an artificially high IOP measurement, whereas thinner CCT can give an artificially low reading. Some have suggested a correction factor of upto 3 mm Hg (Millimeters of Mercury) for every 50 microns of corneal thickness.

It is advisable not to hold your breath or sqeeze eye lids when your eye pressure is checked using the Goldmann applanation tonometer as that might falsely raise your eye pressure.

The National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) has highlighted the importance of corneal thickness (please look at table 3 page 12 of this NICE Glaucoma Guideline ,Number 85 for detail: http://www.nice.org.uk/nicemedia/live/12145/43839/43839.pdf

For private patients & referrals

Mr Akash Raj 

Consultant Ophthalmologist, Glaucoma specialist & Cataract surgeon

Stourside Hospital (part of West midland Hospital)

60 Bradley Road

Stourbridge

DY8 1UX

01384 505 183

(Alternate:

Monday Evenings)

Appointments:

01384 912966

Private Secretary: Tara Ralph : 01384 632 636 

Mr Akash Raj

Consultant Ophthalmologist, Glaucoma & Cataract specialist.

 

For NHS Referrals through GP/Opticians

Mr Akash Raj

Consultant Ophthalmologist (Glaucoma Lead)

Russells Hall Hospital

Pensnett Road

Dudley

West Midlands

DY1 2HQ

Phone: 01384456111

Extn. 5815 (NHS Secretary: Lyn Eaton)