What common method is used for tonometry in veterinary practice?

The common method used for tonometry in veterinary practice is applanation, specifically utilizing devices like the Tono-Pen. This technique is favored because it measures intraocular pressure (IOP) by determining the amount of force required to flatten a small area of the cornea. The Tono-Pen is portable, easy to use, and provides quick and reliable readings, which make it practical for both veterinary clinics and surgeries.

The importance of using applanation tonometry lies in its direct assessment of ocular health. Elevated intraocular pressure can indicate conditions such as glaucoma, which necessitates timely intervention to prevent vision loss.

Other methods mentioned, such as electron microscopy, transillumination, and ultrasonic pachymetry, serve different purposes in ophthalmic evaluations. Electron microscopy is used for examining fine structural details of ocular tissues at a cellular level, not for measuring IOP. Transillumination is primarily employed for examining the iris and anterior segment structures, while ultrasonic pachymetry measures corneal thickness to aid in diagnosing conditions such as corneal edema, again not providing direct IOP readings. Thus, applanation tonometry stands out as the standardized method for assessing intraocular pressure in veterinary medicine.