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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
07:05
Ultrasound-guided Botulinum Toxin-A Injections: A Method of Treating Sialorrhea
Published on: November 9, 2016
Botulinum toxin type A injection without isopropyl alcohol antisepsis
1Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA.
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|May 21, 2009
Summary
This study found no infections after botulinum toxin type A injections performed without isopropyl alcohol antisepsis. Preserved saline reconstitution of botulinum toxin type A injections demonstrates a very low infection risk.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Disease
- Aesthetics
Background:
- Isopropyl alcohol 70% is a standard skin antiseptic for botulinum toxin injections.
- However, alcohol antisepsis does not guarantee skin sterilization.
- Its efficacy in reducing injection site infections is questionable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the infection rate following botulinum toxin type A injections.
- The study specifically evaluated outcomes without the use of isopropyl alcohol antisepsis.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients receiving botulinum toxin type A injections.
- Data were collected from October 1999 to December 2004 from a single surgeon.
- Patient records were reviewed for infection-related complications.
Main Results:
- 142 patients underwent botulinum toxin type A injections without isopropyl alcohol antisepsis.
- A total of 11,627 injections were administered during the study period.
- No local complications consistent with infection were observed in any patient.
Conclusions:
- Botulinum toxin type A injections reconstituted with preserved saline exhibit an exceptionally low infection rate.
- The findings suggest that routine alcohol antisepsis may not be necessary to prevent infections.
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