Why is there a low risk of infection after cataract surgery in 2016?

With major improvements in technology and other factors, there is a very low risk of infection after cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is actually considered a very safe procedure and almost all patients return to a normal lifestyle very soon after the surgery. This post gives an overview of why there is such a low risk of infection after cataract surgery.

Factors contributing to the low risk of infection after cataract surgery:

Pre-operative cleaning

Before the procedure, the surgeon will clean the following areas with povidine-iodine to reduce bacteria and the chance of organisms entering the eye at the time of cataract surgery:

  • Eye surface
  • Per-orbital skin
  • Eyelids
  • Eyelashes

Sterile instruments

Prior to the operation, all of the instruments used to perform the operation are sterilised. There is no bacteria present on any of the instruments entering the eye which lowers the risk of infection after cataract surgery.

Sterile gowns, masks, and gloves

The surgeon and staff performing the operation all wear sterile gowns, masks, and gloves. This prevents organisms from the surgeons or assistants entering the eye.

Small openings in the eye during surgery

Small openings made into the eye during surgery means less chance of wounds opening after cataract surgery and allowing bacteria.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics delivered into the eye at the end of the cataract operation combat any bacteria that may have entered the eye.

Preventative antibiotic eye drops

Following the cataract surgery, you’ll be given preventative antibiotic eye drops. You’ll be prompted to administer the drops for two weeks to reduce bacterial growth on the eye surface.