Noncontact tonometry in perforating corneal injuries.

Purpose: To report on one of the possible complications induced by puff noncontact tonometry and to discuss various aspects such as safety, other optional methods, rationality, and the need for tonometry in cases of perforating corneal injuries.

Patients And Methods: We report a case of traumatic, self-sealed, midperipheral corneal perforation, where puff tonometry was performed upon admission, 30 minutes after the injury.

Results: The integrity of the wound was temporarily distorted by the air-jet of the puff tonometer, the wound was opened, and an air-bubble filled the anterior chamber.

Conclusion: Puff tonometry in patients with self-sealed midperipheral corneal perforation and a negative Seidel test does not seem sufficiently safe during the immediate posttraumatic period.