A growing number of optometrists are making the switch from applanation to rebound tonometry for measuring patients’ intraocular pressure, due to its advantages of portability and ease of use, as well as the eliminated need for topical anesthesia. Reichert recently added one such device to its product offerings in the US. The Tono-Vera, as it’s called, is an automated tonometer using rebound technology and several design features to optimize patient comfort and reading accuracy, the company says.

A new automated tonometer called "Tono-Vera" features visual markings on the screen to guide proper placement. Photo: Reichert. Click image to enlarge.

A screen on the back of the device, visible to the doctor or tech during the test, provides a view of the eye plus an overlay of target markings to guide the operator to the proper centration, angle and distance needed. An onscreen ring should be maneuvered to the center of the target; when the ring is aligned and turns green, you’ve located the corneal apex and correct distance. Canthus markings help determine the correct tilt. The device will then automatically measure the IOP and produce a reliable result in as few as three readings, which takes less than one second, the company says.

The tonometer weighs in at a comfortable 4.2 ounces and features a soft forehead rest for stabilization and distance control. The single-use probes are made specifically for the device and come in a box of 100. Clinicians also have the option to choose between two device models—rechargeable and AA battery—both of which offer Bluetooth connectivity.

For more information, go to www.reichert.com/tonoveratonometer.