What role do tonometer tips play in Keratoconjunctivitis?
Since the introduction of Dr Goldmann's applanation tonometer (GAT) in 1950, there has been widespread concern about viral transmission via tonometer tips.
Applanation is a method used to measure the pressure inside a patient’s eyes (Intraocular pressure measurement – or IOP). The test is used to screen for glaucoma and to measure how well glaucoma treatment is working. A device is mounted onto the slit-lamp with an applanation tip that presses against the cornea's surface.
The contact nature of the applanation tonometry method means that inadequate disinfection of tonometer tips can result in the growth of various bacteria. This can lead to the transmission of adenovirus (from patient to patient and from the health practitioner to patients).
Adenovirus can cause a wide range of illnesses, including Keratoconjunctivitis, when a person contracts keratitis (inflammation of the cornea) and conjunctivitis (infection or swelling in your conjunctiva) at the same time. The condition can range from mild to severe.
Preventing transmission of Keratoconjunctivitis
Due to the highly contagious nature of Keratoconjunctivitis, optometrists should be highly vigilant in adhering to standard infection control precautions
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends 70% ethanol solutions to disinfect reusable equipment such as chin rests, handles, trial frames and other hard surfaces. For commonly touched surfaces, the WHO recommends 0.5% sodium hypochlorite.
Many ophthalmologists in the United Kingdom now use disposable tonometer prisms or non-contact tonometry devices; however, there are additional steps you can take to prevent the spread of Keratoconjunctivitis in your practice.
- Use single-use eye drops
- Use gloves
- Use medical-grade disinfectants to wipe all semicritical surfaces
- Recognise that alcohol wipes are not an acceptable antiviral cleaner
Reusable tonometry tips and non-contact tonometers
Keeler eye care equipment is designed to cater for the challenging environments clinicians face. We have developed several products to reduce the potential of viral transmission via tonometer tips.
TonoClear single-use applanation prisms
These single-use tonometer prisms can be used in combination with a GAT to determine the IOP. The Tonoclear prism is designed to accommodate variations in light intensity from the slit lamp to ensure a clear view of the mires at all times. The individually packed prisms come pre-assembled to reduce any risk of cross-contamination and hassle in your workflow.
Non-contact tonometers
Non-contact tonometers eliminate the need for corneal contact, which reduces the spread of infection. While non-contact tonometers are normally considered less portable than contact tonometers, the TonoCare Wireless Non-Contact Tonometer is compact and portable with a long-lasting battery.
Contact Keeler for high-quality optometry equipment
If you’re looking for the best optometry equipment, Keeler Ophthalmic Instruments will meet your needs and exceed your expectations. For more than 100 years, we’ve continually innovated to help eye care professionals deliver exceptional results.
