This study investigates the effects of reusing surgical supplies during cataract surgery, focusing on the potential impacts on postoperative complications such as endophthalmitis and toxic anterior segment syndrome (TASS). Endophthalmitis is a severe eye infection that can occur after eye surgery, while TASS is an inflammatory condition affecting the front part of the eye. The study aims to determine if reusing supplies can reduce financial costs, greenhouse gas emissions, and environmental waste, particularly in developing countries.
Participants in the study will undergo routine preoperative examinations, including blood pressure and blood glucose level checks, ECG, and hepatitis markers. During surgery, different protocols will be followed to assess the safety and efficacy of reusing supplies. This includes reusing surgical instruments like keratomes and phacoemulsification tips until they become blunt, and implementing specific sterilization procedures between surgeries. The study will also compare different methods of antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent infections.
- Who can participate: Adults with cataracts who are neither diabetic nor hypertensive are eligible to participate in this study.
- Study details: Participants will undergo cataract surgery with varying protocols for reusing surgical supplies. This includes using the same instruments for multiple surgeries with sterilization in between. The study will also test different antibiotic prophylaxis methods to prevent infections.