How is intraocular pressure primarily assessed in clinical settings?

Intraocular pressure (IOP) assessment is primarily conducted using tonometry, which is a valuable and widely accepted method in clinical ophthalmology. This technique directly measures the pressure inside the eye, providing objective and quantifiable data that are essential for diagnosing conditions such as glaucoma.

Tonometry can be performed using different types of devices, including Goldmann applanation tonometers, non-contact tonometers, and rebound tonometers. Each of these methods effectively assesses IOP by measuring the resistance of the cornea when a force is applied, allowing for accurate readings that can guide treatment decisions.

Other approaches listed, such as subjective patient feedback, visual observation, and measuring corneal thickness, do not provide reliable or objective assessments of intraocular pressure. Patient feedback may lead to inconsistencies as it relies on personal perception rather than measurable data. Visual observation does not yield any numerical pressure values, and while corneal thickness is important in the context of glaucoma risk assessment, it does not directly measure IOP. Thus, tonometry remains the gold standard for assessing intraocular pressure in clinical practice.