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Siep's test: A novel test for checking wound integrity in small-incision cataract surgery
Binita N Gadavi1, Aditi Pai2, M Atul Kamath3
1Department of Ophthalmology, GMERS-Sola, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.
Indian Journal of Ophthalmology
|October 29, 2022
Summary
This study shows that using povidone-iodine after small-incision cataract surgery (SICS) effectively identifies wound leaks. This simple method reduces complications and the need for re-surgeries, improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Techniques
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Postoperative wound leaks are a concern after small-incision cataract surgery (SICS).
- These leaks can lead to serious complications such as endophthalmitis and necessitate re-surgeries.
- Identifying and managing wound integrity is crucial for successful surgical outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of using 5% povidone-iodine as a diagnostic tool for detecting wound leaks after SICS.
- To assess the impact of this technique on reducing postoperative complications and re-surgeries.
Main Methods:
- A randomized prospective trial involving 300 patients undergoing SICS.
- Application of 2-3 drops of 5% povidone-iodine at the conclusion of each surgery.
- Observation for wound leak detection and surface sterilization.
Main Results:
- 110 out of 300 patients experienced postoperative wound leaks.
- The primary causes of leaks included premature entry (75%), floppy iris syndrome (20%), and pseudoexfoliation syndrome (5%).
- Implementation of the povidone-iodine technique led to a significant reduction in re-surgeries from 12 to 3 cases.
Conclusions:
- The use of 5% povidone-iodine is a simple, economical, and effective method for identifying postoperative wound leaks in SICS.
- This technique aids in sterilizing the ocular surface and can significantly decrease the incidence of endophthalmitis and the need for re-operations.
- Povidone-iodine serves as a visual aid, similar to Siep's test, to assess the speed, location, and quantity of aqueous outflow, benefiting surgeons, especially residents.

