Using Icare HOME tonometry for follow-up of patients with open-angle glaucoma before and after selective laser trabeculoplasty

Abstract

IMPORTANCE: Monitoring the results of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) on intraocular pressure (IOP) using a home rebound tonometry. BACKGROUND: To evaluate the role of Icare® HOME tonometry in open-angle glaucoma patients being treated with SLT. DESIGN: A clinic-based prospective case study. PARTICIPANTS: 14 eyes from 14 patients diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma were recruited. METHODS: The trabecular meshwork of each eye was treated 360° with a frequency doubled Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. IOP was measured four times a day for a week before and after SLT. On the day of SLT, the patients were required to measure the IOP in the evening to record any IOP spikes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The use of Icare® HOME in following up patients post laser trabeculoplasty without the need for clinic attendance. RESULTS: Icare® HOME recorded a significant reduction of 5.12mmHg in the mean IOP post SLT (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.75-6.50mmHg, P <0.001). The maximum IOP was also reduced by 6.14mmHg (95% CI 3.07-9.21, P <0.001) with no IOP spikes recorded post SLT. There was a reduction in IOP fluctuation post SLT by 1.07mmHg (95% CI 0.24-1.89mmHg, P = 0.021). No adverse effects for using the Icare® HOME were reported by the study participants. CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE: This methodology could be highly useful for facilitating safe follow-up of patients residing in remote and rural areas, thus reducing healthcare cost with better information on IOP. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.