Effect of anesthesia on intraocular pressure measurement in children

Measurement of the intraocular pressure (IOP) is central to the diagnosis and management of pediatric glaucoma. An examination under anesthesia is often necessary in pediatric patients. Different agents used for sedation or general anesthesia have varied effects on IOP. Hemodynamic factors, methods of airway management, tonometry technique, and body positioning can all affect IOP measurements. The most accurate technique is one that reflects the awake IOP. We review factors affecting IOP measurements in the pediatric population and provide recommendations on the most accurate means to measure IOP under anesthesia based on the present literature.