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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 18, 2026

Proper Care and Cleaning of the Microscope
04:57

Proper Care and Cleaning of the Microscope

Published on: August 11, 2008

Current practice patterns for cleaning tonometry tips and diagnostic/laser lenses.

David F Chang1, Emily M Schehlein2, Eliesa A Ing3

  • 1Altos Eye Physicians, Los Altos, CA.

Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
|June 16, 2026
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

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Most ophthalmologists use simple cleaning methods like alcohol wipes for eye examination tools, not high-level disinfection (HLD). HLD is rarely used and causes device issues, with no evidence of increased infection risk from current practices.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Infectious Disease Control
  • Medical Device Sterilization

Background:

  • Ophthalmologists frequently use reusable tonometry tips and contact lenses during eye examinations.
  • Current cleaning practices for these devices vary, with a majority relying on simpler methods like alcohol wipes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate current cleaning and disinfection practices for ophthalmic devices among ophthalmologists.
  • To assess the perceived necessity and safety of high-level disinfection (HLD) for tonometry tips and contact lenses.
  • To understand ophthalmologists' opinions on mandatory HLD for routine ophthalmic instruments.

Main Methods:

  • An online survey was distributed to over 1000 ophthalmologists.
  • The survey collected data on cleaning methods used for tonometry tips, diagnostic lenses, and laser lenses.

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jun 18, 2026

Proper Care and Cleaning of the Microscope
04:57

Proper Care and Cleaning of the Microscope

Published on: August 11, 2008

  • Respondents reported on the use of disposable devices, high-level disinfection (HLD), and reasons for their practices.

    • Main Results:

    • A significant majority of ophthalmologists use alcohol wipes or swabs for cleaning tonometry tips (73%) and contact lenses (63% diagnostic, 50% laser).
    • Use of disposable devices or HLD was uncommon, often mandated by facility policies rather than perceived safety benefits.
    • High-level disinfection was associated with ocular surface toxicity and device damage, while infection transmission was reported as exceedingly rare (99% never encountered a case).

    Conclusions:

    • Most ophthalmologists oppose mandatory HLD for routine devices like tonometry tips and contact lenses.
    • Current common cleaning methods are perceived as adequate, with a lack of evidence supporting increased infection risk.
    • The decision for high-level disinfection should remain at the ophthalmologist's discretion, balancing safety with practical device use.