Related Experiment Videos
Suture abscesses after penetrating keratoplasty
A B Leahey1, R L Avery, J D Gottsch
1Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21205.
Cornea
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Retained sutures after corneal transplants can cause serious bacterial infections, often linked to topical steroid use. Prompt suture removal and antibiotic treatment improve graft clarity in most cases.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Suture abscesses are a potential complication following penetrating keratoplasty (corneal transplant).
- These infections can arise months after surgery, often coinciding with topical steroid use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cases of suture abscesses post-penetrating keratoplasty.
- To identify causative organisms, treatment outcomes, and risk factors.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 18 suture abscess cases in 15 patients after penetrating keratoplasty.
- Cultures were performed, and patients were treated with suture removal and fortified topical antibiotics (cefazolin and tobramycin).
Main Results:
- Commonly isolated bacteria included Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus.
- 13 of 18 patients were using topical steroids at diagnosis.
- 67% of grafts were clear after treatment; 16% failed.
Conclusions:
- Retained sutures are a significant risk factor for sight-threatening infections after corneal transplantation.
- Early suture removal and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for managing these infections.
- Topical steroid use may increase the risk of suture abscess development.