Comparison of the performance of the Nidek NT-2000 noncontact tonometer with the Keeler Pulsair 2000 and the Goldmann applanation tonometer

We compared the performance of a new noncontact tonometer (NCT), Nidek NT-2000, with the Keeler Pulsair 2000 and the Goldmann applanation tonometer (AT). Twenty-two subjects with intraocular pressure (IOP) ranging from 10 to 21 mmHg were recruited and their IOP measured using each technique on 2 different days. The NT-2000 produces repeatable IOP readings and is comparable to the Goldmann AT. There is a significant between-visits difference in IOP when using the Pulsair 2000. The reproducibility of IOP measurements made with the Pulsair 2000 is relatively poor when compared to the Goldmann AT and the NT-2000. IOP measurements made with the Goldmann AT show good repeatability and reproducibility when the mean of three IOP readings are used. When a single Goldmann reading is used variability is increased. There is no significant difference in the IOP readings made on the first visit between techniques.