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Use of vancomycin in vitrectomy infusion solution and evaluation of retinal toxicity

H Borhani1, G A Peyman, H Wafapoor

  • 1LSU Eye Center, Louisiana State University Medical Center School of Medicine, New Orleans 70112-2234.

International Ophthalmology
|April 1, 1993
PubMed

Insights

Vancomycin is safe for the eye at concentrations up to 32 micrograms/ml during eye surgery. Higher concentrations, specifically 100 micrograms/ml, may cause retinal toxicity, affecting electroretinography and eye tissue.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pharmacology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Vancomycin is an antibiotic used in ophthalmic surgery.
  • The safety of intraocular vancomycin concentrations requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the retinal toxicity of vancomycin in infusion solutions used during vitrectomy and lensectomy.

Main Methods:

  • The study utilized electroretinography (ERG) and histologic examination (light microscopy) in rabbit eyes.
  • Different concentrations of vancomycin (8, 16, 32, and 100 µg/ml) in balanced salt solution were tested.

Main Results:

  • Vancomycin concentrations of 8, 16, and 32 µg/ml showed no adverse effects on ERG or retinal histology.
  • A concentration of 100 µg/ml vancomycin resulted in significant ERG amplitude depression and abnormal histologic findings.

Conclusions:

  • Intraocular vancomycin at concentrations up to 32 µg/ml appears safe for retinal tissues during ophthalmic procedures.
  • Higher vancomycin concentrations (100 µg/ml) pose a risk of retinal toxicity, necessitating careful dose selection in surgical settings.

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