Applanation Tonometers
Applanation tonometry remains the clinical reference standard for measuring intraocular pressure (IOP), and the Goldmann applanation method is the technique most glaucoma and comprehensive practices build their diagnostic workflow around. Mounted on the slit lamp, the tonometer uses a measuring prism to flatten a small, defined area of the anesthetized, fluorescein-stained cornea; the examiner turns the dial until the inner edges of the two fluorescent semicircles just meet, then reads the applied force directly as pressure. Because it measures IOP by direct corneal contact rather than estimating it, an applanation tonometer delivers the reproducible, defensible readings that drive glaucoma diagnosis, treatment decisions, and long-term monitoring.
At US Ophthalmic we supply applanation tonometers across our own Ezer line as well as carried brands such as Luxvision and Huvitz, in configurations that fit single-lane rooms and multi-lane practices alike. As a provider with an in-house technical and repair department, US warranty coverage, and a dedicated spare-parts operation, we support these instruments well beyond the sale, from mounting them to your existing slit lamp to sourcing replacement measuring prisms down the road. Every model on this page is available by Request a Quote so our team can confirm slit-lamp compatibility and the right mount before you commit.
How to choose an applanation tonometer
- Mount type: R-type vs. T-type: R-type tonometers attach to a fixed post on the slit lamp and swing into position, staying dedicated to that lane. T-type units mount on a removable guide plate so a single tonometer can move between multiple slit lamps. Choose R-type for a fixed single-lane setup and T-type (or a convertible model) if you want to share one instrument across rooms.
- Slit-lamp compatibility: An applanation tonometer must match the mounting interface of your slit lamp. Confirm your slit-lamp brand, model, and arm or post configuration before ordering; our team verifies fit as part of the quote so the tonometer seats correctly and parks clear of the microscope when not in use.
- Analog dial vs. digital readout: Traditional Goldmann units display IOP on an analog measuring dial, while digital models such as the Huvitz HT-5000 show the reading on a digital display. Both use the same applanation principle; the choice comes down to reading preference and staff workflow.
- Measuring prism and consumables: The measuring prism is the working contact element and must be disinfected between patients or replaced over time. Consider whether you will standardize on reusable prisms with a disinfection protocol, and confirm replacement prisms are available. We stock spare parts and consumables so instruments stay in service.
- Practice workflow and number of lanes: Match the configuration to how you run the clinic. A dedicated tonometer per lane keeps single-lane rooms efficient, while a removable or convertible unit can reduce the number of instruments a multi-lane or bench-share practice needs to buy.
- Calibration, service, and warranty: Applanation tonometers should be checked periodically for measurement accuracy. Buying from a provider with in-house repair, US warranty, and parts support means calibration checks, servicing, and prism replacement are handled locally rather than shipped overseas.
Applanation tonometers we carry
The table below compares the Goldmann applanation tonometers available through US Ophthalmic by mount and readout style, so you can match a model to your slit lamp and clinic workflow. Request a Quote on any model and we will confirm compatibility and mounting before you order.
| Model | Type | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Ezer ESL-Emerald-TN | Slit-lamp-mounted Goldmann applanation | Practices standardizing on the Ezer platform and wanting house-brand pricing with provider-backed service |
| Luxvision TN-150 | R-type, fixed optical-body-post mount | Single-lane rooms with a dedicated slit lamp and suspension-arm interface |
| Luxvision TN-150B | Convertible R-type or T-type mount | Practices that want the option of a fixed or a removable, room-to-room tonometer |
| Luxvision TN-180B | Goldmann, swing-down slit-lamp mount | Lanes needing a tonometer that parks clear of the slit lamp when not in use |
| Huvitz HT-5000 | Digital-readout Goldmann applanation | Clinicians who prefer a digital IOP display over an analog measuring dial |
Frequently asked questions
Why is Goldmann applanation still considered the gold standard for measuring IOP? Goldmann applanation tonometry measures intraocular pressure by direct, controlled contact with the cornea rather than estimating it, which makes readings highly reproducible. It has been validated across decades of clinical use and remains the reference standard against which other tonometry methods are compared, which is why it anchors most glaucoma diagnosis and monitoring protocols.
What is the difference between an R-type and a T-type applanation tonometer? The difference is in the mount. An R-type attaches to a fixed post on the slit lamp and swings into and out of position, staying with that lane. A T-type mounts on a removable guide plate, so one tonometer can be shared across several slit lamps. Some models, such as the Luxvision TN-150B, can be configured either way. If you are unsure which suits your setup, our team will advise during the quote.
Will these tonometers fit my existing slit lamp? Most Goldmann-style applanation tonometers mount to a post or guide plate on the slit lamp, but the interface varies by slit-lamp brand and model. Send us your slit-lamp make, model, and mount configuration and we will confirm compatibility and recommend the correct R-type or T-type option before you order.
Do applanation tonometers need calibration or servicing? Yes. Measurement accuracy should be verified periodically, and the measuring prism must be disinfected between patients and replaced over its service life. Because US Ophthalmic runs an in-house technical and repair department with spare-parts support and US warranty coverage, calibration checks, servicing, and prism replacement are handled locally rather than sent abroad.
Should I consider a new or a refurbished applanation tonometer? Both can be sound choices. A new unit carries full warranty and the latest configuration, while a properly reconditioned and calibrated instrument can lower the entry cost for a new lane. The key is buying from a provider that services and verifies the instrument. Ask our team about current availability and warranty terms for the model you are considering.
