Sterilisation of tonometers and gonioscopes.

ABSTRACT

Precautions to prevent spread of infection through tonometers and gonioscopes are described in this article. Tonometers and gonioscopes should not be used in the presence of clinically manifest conjunctivitis and keratitis. The Schiotz tonometer should be dipped in a 11000 merthiolate solution, and rinsed in saline/distilled water prior to use. The Goldmann applanation prism tip can be wiped with gauze soaked in 70% isopropyl alcohol and then dried before use. Gonioscopes should be cleaned in running water, wiped with gauze soaked in 70% isopropyl alcohol, and then dried before use. Koeppes and goniotomy lenses can be sterilized with ethylene oxide, prior to use in surgery.