Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026
07:27
Anterior Segment Organ Culture Platform for Tracking Open Globe Injuries and Therapeutic Performance
Published on: August 25, 2021
[Toxic Anterior Segment Syndrome (TASS): studying an outbreak]
M Sarobe Carricas1, G Segrelles Bellmunt, L Jiménez Lasanta
1Servicio de Farmacia, Hospital de Navarra, Pamplona, España. msarobec@cfnavarra.es
Summary
Toxic Anterior Segment Syndrome (TASS) outbreaks after cataract surgery can be prevented. This study found that using tap water instead of sterile water during instrument washing likely caused a TASS outbreak, highlighting the importance of proper sterilization protocols.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Complications
- Sterilization Processes
Context:
- Toxic Anterior Segment Syndrome (TASS) is a non-infectious inflammatory condition following cataract surgery.
- Prompt treatment with topical steroids is crucial for resolution.
- An outbreak of 5 TASS cases prompted an investigation into potential causes.
Purpose:
- To investigate the cause of a TASS outbreak in a hospital setting.
- To analyze potential sources including surgical materials, drugs, and sterilization procedures.
- To identify the specific factor leading to the TASS outbreak.
Summary:
- Biochemical, microbiological, pH, osmolarity, and endotoxin assays of pharmaceutical preparations, including irrigating solutions, were found to be within normal limits.
- No adverse effects were noted upon re-administration of the analyzed substances.
- The investigation concluded that the TASS outbreak was linked to the pre-sterilization washing process of surgical instruments, specifically the non-adherence to using distilled, sterile water and the continued use of tap water.
Impact:
- Identifies a critical, preventable cause of TASS outbreaks in cataract surgery.
- Emphasizes the importance of strict adherence to sterile water protocols in surgical instrument reprocessing.
- Provides crucial insights for hospitals to revise and improve sterilization and washing procedures to prevent future TASS events.
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