Wiki Opthalmology Terms

[Debbie8437]

Would someone please explain to me the difference between the 3 opthalmology terms
Tomography-Tonography-Tonometry
Really appreciate it. Thank you.
Deb Peloso

 

[fishbite2]

Tomography is digital imaging of the optic nerve or retina, for example the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), 92133 & 92134. It is used to evaluate optic nerve thinning or cupping in glaucoma or if there are retina/macular disorders present. Tonometry is the measuring of intraocular pressure. There are two methods: Applanation, which measures the force used to flatten a small area of the cornea, or by Indentation, which measures the amount of (surprise!) indentation made by a weight. Optometrists tend to favor the "puff" method which blows air against the cornea and slightly flattens it. Tonometry is usually included in the exam itself and not reported seperately. The exception is Serial Tonometry 92100. A series of measurements are taken over the course of the day to determine treatment for acutely high intraocular pressure. Tonography, 92120, is not commonly used. It measures how fast intraocular pressure is reduced by placing suction on the eye and makes an electronic graph over a period of 4 minutes. Most offices do not even have the equipment to perform tonography. Hope this helps!