[Traumatic Endophthalmitis Prevention Trial (TEPT)]

Post-traumatic endophthalmitis is one of the most severe complications occurring in 2-17% after open globe injuries. Early intravenous antibiotics may minimise the risk of post-traumatic endophthalmitis. The design of a new study to evaluate the role of an additional intravitreal antibiotic injection in the prevention of post-traumatic endophthalmitis is presented in this paper.

A prospective, multicentre, randomised controlled study was designed. Patients with penetrating or perforating eye injuries will be included up to the year 2010. The wound closure and IOFB (intraocular foreign body) removal must be performed within 24 hours after the trauma. After grouping into low risk (e. g., metallic IOFB) or high risk patients (e. g., agricultural trauma, organic IOFB) each patient will be randomised for 1) intravenous moxifloxacin only or 2) intravenous moxifloxacin plus intravitreal 1 mg Vancomycin plus 2.25 mg [DOSAGE ERROR CORRECTED] Ceftazidim.

17 European Departments of Ophthalmology have agreed to participate. The rate of post-traumatic endophthalmitis in each group will be statistically compared. The follow-up period of this study will last 6 months.

Other Departments of Ophthalmology are invited to join the TEPT.