Light hazards in the operating room

The use of high-intensity illumination devices is routine for many ophthalmic diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. However, the exposure of patients to high-level photic energy may be damaging even in the absence of visible abnormalities. Devices such as the operating microscope, indirect ophthalmoscope, and endoilluminator are capable of irradiances sufficient to cause retinal damage and should be used with a degree of restraint that reflects a recognition of their potential for phototoxicity.