Effect of laser in situ keratomileusis on rebound tonometry and Goldmann applanation tonometry

Purpose To determine the influence of refractive surgery on intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements obtained using an iCare rebound tonometer and a Goldmann applanation tonometer. Setting School of Optometry, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China. Methods Intraocular pressure was measured using the rebound tonometer and applanation tonometer before and 1 month after uneventful LASIK for myopia. Results The IOP was measured in 96 eyes (96 patients). The preoperative IOP measured by rebound tonometry (mean 16.7 mm Hg ± 3.0 [SD]) was statistically significantly higher than by Goldmann applanation tonometry (mean 15.4 ± 2.5 mm Hg) ( P P >.05, Wilcoxon test). The mean difference between the 2 tonometers after LASIK was 0.1 ± 2.1 mm Hg. The 95% limits of agreement ranged from −4.26 to 4.05 mm Hg. The IOP reduction with rebound tonometry was positively correlated with preoperative IOP. Conclusion There was a greater decrease in IOP measurement after LASIK by rebound tonometry, showing this method was more affected by surgery. Financial Disclosure No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.