hypotony
Pronunciation: HY-poh-toh-nee
Abnormally low intraocular pressure, typically below 5-8 mmHg, that can compromise eye function.
Full Definition
Hypotony refers to pathologically low intraocular pressure that can result from surgical complications, trauma, or certain disease processes. Normal intraocular pressure ranges from 10-21 mmHg, and persistent hypotony can lead to choroidal detachment, macular edema, corneal folds, and visual impairment. In post-surgical contexts, hypotony may indicate wound leakage, overfiltering bleb function, or cyclodialysis cleft. Management depends on the underlying cause and may require surgical revision, medical therapy, or observation.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from systemic hypotension. Always specify 'ocular' when context could be ambiguous.
In Context
- "Post-operative hypotony resolved after bleb revision surgery." — Glaucoma surgical follow-up
- "The patient developed hypotony maculopathy following the filtering procedure." — Complication report