We are excited to announce the arrival of a new piece of equipment which will be an invaluable tool in the assessment of ocular conditions in dogs, cats and horses. A Tonometer allows the measurement of the intraocular pressure (IOP) of the eye. The IOP is an important diagnostic indicator of conditions such as glaucoma and uveitis. These painful conditions can be managed with appropriate medical intervention, however this is reliant upon early diagnosis and treatment. If left untreated long-term complications may arise, including loss of vision, or the eye itself.
One of the key features of the Tonometer is the non-invasive manner in which it takes its measurements. We are aware the veterinary clinic can be a stressful environment for some pets and aim to adopt low stress practices whenever possible. The Tonometer is held just away from the cornea, which is the external surface of the eye. A tiny probe then painlessly and rapidly reaches out and touches the cornea. This is repeated approximately six times and is so quick (40 milliseconds) that the patient is often unaware it has occurred. Because of this most patients tolerate tonometry very well and can have the procedure performed without sedation or local anaesthesia.
Tonometers are a specialised piece of veterinary equipment. Our veterinarians look forward to using the Tonometer to continue to optimise the veterinary care they can provide to their patients.
