Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: Using a new Goldmann contact lens associated ophthalmodynamometric device, it was the purpose of the present study to evaluate whether determination of the central retinal artery and vein collapse pressure correlate with systemic blood pressure measurements. Methods: The prospective clinical study included 121 eyes of 76 patients presenting with cataract or refractive problems (n=50 eyes) or with retinal and orbital pathologies (n=71 eyes). With topical anesthesia, a Goldmann contact lens fitted with a pressure sensor in its holding ring was placed onto the cornea. Pressure was asserted onto the globe by pressing the contact lens, and the pressure value at the time when the central retinal artery and vein started pulsating were noted as central retinal artery and vein collapse pressure. Additionally, the brachial arterial blood pressure was measured. Results: In the study group without retinal or orbital diseases, central retinal artery collapse pressure was highly significantly correlated with diastolic blood pressure (correlation coefficient r=0.70; p<0.001) and systolic blood pressure (r=0.29; p=0.04). Central retinal vein collapse pressure was statistically associated with the diastolic blood pressure (r=0.46; p=0.005). In eyes with retinal or orbital diseases, the correlation coefficients were lower than in the normal study group. In eyes with retinal arterial occlusions, central retinal vessel collapse pressure measurements were not correlated with arterial blood pressure measurements. Conclusions: Depending on co-existing diseases, ophthalmodynamometric estimation of the central retinal vessel collapse pressure, performed during a routine Goldmann contact lens ophthalmoscopy, is correlated with systemic blood pressure measurements. It may have clinical importance.
Keywords: optic disc • blood supply • clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: ris