Reproducibility of ophthalmodynamometric measurements of central retinal artery and vein collapse pressure.

BACKGROUND To assess the reproducibility of ophthalmodynamometric measurements using a new, Goldmann contact lens associated, device allowing biomicroscopic visualisation of the optic disc. METHODS The prospective clinical study included 87 eyes of 58 subjects presenting with a normal fundus (n=40), or ocular diseases (n=47). With topical anaesthesia, a Goldmann contact lens, fitted with a pressure sensor mounted into the holding ring of the contact lens, was placed onto the cornea. Pressure was applied onto the globe through the contact lens, and the pressure values obtained when the central retinal vessels started pulsating were noted. The measurements were performed 10 times. RESULTS The mean coefficients of variation for redeterminations of the collapse pressure of the central retinal vein and artery were 16.3% (SD 11.4%), and 8.5% (4.1%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS A simple and new, Goldmann contact lens associated, ophthalmodynamometer allows central retinal artery and vein collapse pressure measurements which are reproducible in a clinical setting.