Goldmann and Perkins tonometers can be purchased easily in the UK from an assortment of well known optical suppliers.
Goldmann tonometers are available in several forms but generally cost around £1000 – £1200. Forms available:
- ‘T’ Type (guide plate mounting)
- With and without digital display
- ‘R’ Type (slit lamp arm mounting)
- With and without digital display
Perkins tonometers (handheld version of the Goldmann tonometer) tend to be a little cheaper, costing just under £1000.
When owning a Goldmann tonometer it is important that the equipment is well maintained, in order for it to be used for accurate IOP measurement.
- Storage: When the equipment is not being used, it is recommended the tonometer be stored in its storage case. Goldmann tonometers are fragile and can easily loose accuracy if dropped. Extremes of temperature should be avoided.
- Calibration: The general recommendation is to calibrate your tonometer once a month. From my own experience, I would check your tonometer’s calibration at the start of every clinic that you intend to use the equipment. The tolerance of the Goldmann tonometer is +/- 0.5mmHg. Tonometers out of this range should be sent for servicing and recalibration.
- Servicing: Regularly used tonometers should be serviced annually.
*It is your responsibility to ensure any tonometer you are using is calibrated and has been correctly serviced and maintained*
