Which instrument is used to measure intraocular pressure?

The instrument used to measure intraocular pressure is a tonometer. This device assesses the pressure inside the eye, which is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions like glaucoma. There are various types of tonometers, including applanation, non-contact, and indentation tonometers, each utilizing different methods to provide accurate measurements of intraocular pressure.

A retinoscope is utilized to assess the refractive error of the eye during an eye exam but does not measure intraocular pressure. A pachymeter is used to measure the thickness of the cornea, which can be an important factor in assessing risk for glaucoma but does not provide a direct measurement of intraocular pressure itself. A sphygmomanometer is intended for measuring blood pressure and is unrelated to ocular measurements. Understanding the specific purpose of each instrument helps clarify their respective roles in ophthalmic practice.