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Endophthalmitis outbreaks following cataract surgery: causative organisms, etiologies, and visual acuity outcomes

Avinash Pathengay1, Harry W Flynn, Ryan F Isom

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, USA.

Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
|June 26, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Contaminated solutions and equipment cause endophthalmitis outbreaks after cataract surgery. Gram-negative bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are common culprits, often leading to poor visual outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Infectious Disease

Background:

  • Endophthalmitis outbreaks following cataract surgery pose a significant threat to vision.
  • Identifying outbreak sources is crucial for preventing future occurrences.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and identify common causes and causative organisms of endophthalmitis outbreaks after cataract surgery.
  • To analyze visual outcomes in patients affected by these outbreaks.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of 27 endophthalmitis outbreak reports spanning 1985-2011.
  • Analysis of reported sources of contamination, causative microorganisms, and patient visual acuity outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Contaminated solutions (37%) and phacoemulsification machines (22.2%) were the most frequent causes.
  • Gram-negative bacteria (85.2%), especially Pseudomonas aeruginosa (51.8%), were the predominant pathogens.
  • 55.5% of treated patients achieved a visual acuity of 20/400 or better.

Conclusions:

  • Outbreaks of endophthalmitis post-cataract surgery are frequently linked to perioperative irrigation solutions and contaminated equipment.
  • Gram-negative bacteria are the primary cause, impacting visual prognosis.
  • Preventive strategies should focus on sterile solutions and equipment maintenance.

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