Infection risk from surgeons' eyeglasses.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Surgical Hygiene

Background:

• Eyeglasses worn by surgeons can potentially harbor microorganisms.
• Maintaining aseptic techniques is crucial in preventing surgical site infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the bacterial contamination levels on eyeglasses used by orthopedic surgeons.
• To identify the types of bacteria present on surgical eyewear.

Main Methods:

• Bacterial samples were collected from the nose pads and earpieces of 20 surgeons' eyeglasses.
• Samples were cultured on specialized agar plates (Staphylococcus/Streptococcus, Mannitol salt, Chromogenic).
• Isolated microorganisms were identified using standard microbiological techniques.

Main Results:

• 19 out of 20 eyeglasses showed contamination, predominantly with Staphylococcus epidermidis.
• Three eyeglasses also had Staphylococcus haemolyticus or Staphylococcus xylosus.
• One eyeglass yielded Staphylococcus aureus.

Conclusions:

• Surgical eyeglasses serve as a reservoir for bacteria, posing a risk for surgical site infections.
• Contamination can occur through direct contact, surgeon's fingers, irrigation fluid splashes, or airborne particles.
• Routine disinfection of surgeons' eyeglasses is recommended; alternatives include surgical visors or specialized protective gear.