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Quantification of aerosol generation during cataract surgery.
Gelareh S Noureddin1, Alfonso Iovieno, Maryam Eslami
1From the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
|November 24, 2020
Summary
Phacoemulsification cataract surgery does not generate significant aerosols, meaning it is not an aerosol-generating medical procedure (AGMP). Ophthalmologists can continue using standard droplet precautions during this common eye surgery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Procedures
- Infectious Disease Control
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated evaluating aerosol generation from medical procedures.
- Determining if phacoemulsification cataract surgery is an aerosol-generating medical procedure (AGMP) is crucial for appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To ascertain whether phacoemulsification cataract surgery generates aerosols.
- To inform PPE guidelines for healthcare providers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Main Methods:
- A laboratory simulation using porcine eyes was conducted.
- Aerosol monitoring (PM1, PM2.5, PM4) was performed during and after phacoemulsification surgery using a DustTrak monitor.
Main Results:
- No significant aerosolization of particles was detected during phacoemulsification cataract surgery.
- This finding held true for both 2.4 mm and 2.75 mm wound sizes.
Conclusions:
- Phacoemulsification cataract surgery is not classified as an aerosol-generating medical procedure (AGMP).
- Ophthalmologists may continue employing droplet precautions for this surgery, even during pandemics like COVID-19.
