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Intraocular fluid cultures after primary pars plana vitrectomy
S M Cohen1, J D Benner, M B Landers
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento 95816.
Abstract:
To determine what organisms enter the eye and remain in the eye after pars plana vitrectomy, vitreous cavity aspirates were cultured postoperatively. Two of 33 (6%) consecutive eyes undergoing primary pars plana vitrectomy had positive cultures. One sample grew a single colony of Staphylococcus epidermidis, the second grew two colonies of Acinetobacter lwoffi. Neither of these eyes developed endophthalmitis. This study demonstrates that bacteria enter the eye at a low rate during pars plana vitrectomy and that the eye on which a vitrectomy has been performed is capable of clearing a low inoculum of bacteria.
Insights
Bacteria can enter the eye during pars plana vitrectomy, but the eye often clears these organisms. This study found a low rate of bacterial contamination following the procedure.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Pars plana vitrectomy is a common surgical procedure.
- Understanding microbial contamination is crucial for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify organisms entering the eye during pars plana vitrectomy.
- To assess the eye's ability to clear low-level bacterial contamination post-surgery.
Main Methods:
- Vitreous cavity aspirates were collected from 33 patients post-pars plana vitrectomy.
- Aspirates were cultured to detect bacterial growth.
Main Results:
- Two of 33 (6%) patients showed positive cultures for bacteria.
- Identified bacteria included Staphylococcus epidermidis and Acinetobacter lwoffi.
- No cases of endophthalmitis were observed in the contaminated eyes.
Conclusions:
- Bacteria can enter the eye during pars plana vitrectomy at a low rate.
- The eye demonstrates a capacity to clear low bacterial inoculums after vitrectomy.
- The findings suggest a low risk of infection from incidental bacterial entry during this procedure.