Document Type
Thesis
Date of Award
Spring 5-31-2008
Degree Name
Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering - (M.S.)
Department
Biomedical Engineering
First Advisor
Tara L. Alvarez
Second Advisor
Max Roman
Third Advisor
Mesut Sahin
Abstract
Glaucoma -- a degeneration of the optic nerve- is a leading cause of blindness which is primarily caused by large fluctuations in intraocular pressure (lOP) known as diurnal variations. Because these peak in the early morning dropping off rapidly, a self administrable and inexpensive lOP home testing procedure is highly desirable. The approach contained herein -- unlike traditional Goldman applanation tonometry which requires the use of ophthalmic anesthetics and complex diagnostic equipment- describes a novel lOP measurement method consisting of concavation of the cornea or sclera through the palpebra superior by the spherical tip of an optoelectronic photodetector suspended in a force sensing probe. Three subjects participated in an experiment in which a prototype device was tested alongside traditional measurement techniques in a clinical setting. Whilst the device was designed to be initially calibrated to each individual subject for palpebral color, reflectivity and thickness, uncompensated preliminary data collected disclose proof of concept.
Recommended Citation
Moinot, Philippe R., "Design and construction of a novel transpalpebral ophthalmic tonometer" (2008). Theses. 366.
https://digitalcommons.njit.edu/theses/366
