Transpalpebral tonometry offers eye care professionals an alternative approach to intraocular pressure assessment without corneal contact, anesthetic drops, or disposable measurement probes.
NEW ORLEANS, LA | October 12, 2026 — As ophthalmology professionals gathered in New Orleans for the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) 2026 Annual Meeting, October 9–12, the Diaton Tonometer was highlighted as an innovative approach to intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement that challenges a longstanding assumption in eye care: that measuring eye pressure requires interaction with the cornea.
Unlike conventional corneal-based tonometry technologies, Diaton measures intraocular pressure through the upper eyelid over the sclera, offering clinicians a distinct approach to assessing IOP without directly contacting the corneal surface.
The technology represents an additional option for ophthalmologists, optometrists, and other healthcare professionals seeking practical methods of eye pressure assessment, particularly when corneal characteristics may complicate conventional measurements.
Why Measuring Eye Pressure Beyond the Cornea Matters
Intraocular pressure measurement plays a central role in glaucoma evaluation and ongoing ophthalmic care. Goldmann applanation tonometry remains an established clinical reference standard, but its readings can be influenced by the physical properties of the cornea.
Corneal thickness, curvature, biomechanical characteristics, and changes resulting from refractive surgery or corneal disease may affect measurements obtained through the cornea.
These considerations become especially relevant in patients with conditions such as keratoconus, corneal edema, scarring, or a history of LASIK and other corneal procedures.
Diaton addresses this challenge from a different anatomical perspective.
By measuring IOP through the upper eyelid over the sclera, the device removes the cornea from the measurement process. Although proper technique and the characteristics of the tissues involved remain important, Diaton’s approach avoids direct dependence on corneal thickness, curvature, and biomechanics.
This provides clinicians with another perspective when evaluating intraocular pressure.
A Practical Approach to Tonometry
Beyond its corneal-independent measurement principle, Diaton offers several operational features that may benefit clinical practices and healthcare facilities.
The device does not require topical anesthetic drops, disposable measurement probes, or direct contact with the cornea.
Its portable handheld design allows measurements in different clinical environments, including settings where conventional slit-lamp-based tonometry may be less practical.
These features may be relevant to ophthalmology and optometry practices, hospital departments, urgent care facilities, and other healthcare environments where access to convenient IOP measurement is important.
The absence of disposable measurement probes also offers a potential economic advantage by reducing recurring consumable purchases. The measuring tip is reusable and must be cleaned and disinfected according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Supporting Clinical Decision-Making With Additional Measurement Options
Diaton has been evaluated in published clinical research, including studies comparing its measurements with Goldmann applanation tonometry.
These investigations have documented agreement between the methods while also identifying measurement differences and limitations. Diaton should therefore be considered an additional clinical measurement option rather than an interchangeable replacement for Goldmann in every patient or circumstance.
Its distinguishing characteristic is the ability to assess IOP without involving the cornea.
For clinicians managing patients with altered corneal anatomy or biomechanics, this difference may provide useful supplementary information as part of a comprehensive ophthalmic assessment.
AAO 2026 and the Continuing Evolution of Eye Care
The American Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Meeting brings together eye care professionals to exchange clinical knowledge, examine emerging technologies, and discuss developments in ophthalmic diagnosis and treatment.
Diaton’s visibility in connection with AAO 2026 reflects continued interest in alternative diagnostic approaches that address specific clinical challenges while supporting efficient, patient-centered care.
As ophthalmic technology advances, the availability of different measurement methods gives clinicians more flexibility to select tools appropriate to individual patients and clinical circumstances.
For Diaton, that innovation begins with a straightforward question:
What if you take the cornea out of the equation?
THINK BEYOND THE CORNEA.™
About Diaton Tonometer
Diaton is an FDA-cleared transpalpebral tonometer designed to measure intraocular pressure through the upper eyelid over the sclera without direct corneal contact. The device offers a portable approach to IOP measurement without topical anesthetic drops or disposable measurement probes.
For product information, clinical studies, and inquiries, visit:
www.TonometerDiaton.com or dial: 1-877-342-8667
AAO 2026 Annual Meeting
October 9–12, 2026
New Orleans, Louisiana
www.aao.org/annual-meeting
