[Importance of diagnosis and preoperative care of the conjunctiva]

The conjunctival smear is an important part of preoperative diagnosis. Although the method is very easy there are many possible sources of error. The validity of smear results was studied; the sources of error are discussed in the present paper. The different bacterial flora of the conjunctival sac and the lid margin were investigated. It was shown that eye drop dispensers become contaminated during use. The use of single-dose Ophtiolen has the advantage--in addition to improved hygiene, that no stabilizing agents are used. Preoperative efforts to achieve asepsis have to be continued during the operation. A new adhesive tape specially developed for ophthalmic surgery has been found very effective. This new tape is described.