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Infection following retinal detachment surgery
Abstract:
Since the introduction of gentamicin (given both as a soaked sponge and as an injection below Tenon's capsule at the end of surgery) no case of early infection either with or without intraocular signs after operation for retinal detachment has occurred in a series of 206 cases comprising 243 operations. However, late infection many months after operation has appeared in 3 cases (1-5%), though this rate appears to have been favourably influenced by the administration of gentamicin. Local or systemic side effects from the administration of gentamicin have not been seen, and therefore the sub-Tenon injection in the quadrant where the sponge has been placed is strongly advocated in all cases of surgery for retinal detachment when such sponges are used.
Insights
Gentamicin administration, including soaked sponges and sub-Tenon injections, eliminated early postoperative infections in retinal detachment surgery. Late infections occurred but were favorably influenced by gentamicin, with no observed side effects.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Infection Prevention
Background:
- Postoperative infections are a risk following retinal detachment surgery.
- The use of antibiotics is crucial in preventing surgical site infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of gentamicin in preventing early and late infections after retinal detachment surgery.
- To assess the safety profile of gentamicin when administered via soaked sponges and sub-Tenon injections.
Main Methods:
- A series of 206 cases (243 operations) for retinal detachment were analyzed.
- Gentamicin was administered as a soaked sponge and as a sub-Tenon injection post-surgery.
Main Results:
- No cases of early postoperative infection (with or without intraocular signs) were observed.
- Three cases (1.5%) of late infection occurred, suggesting a favorable influence of gentamicin.
- No local or systemic side effects related to gentamicin administration were reported.
Conclusions:
- Gentamicin administration is highly effective in preventing early infections after retinal detachment surgery.
- Sub-Tenon injection of gentamicin, in conjunction with soaked sponges, is strongly advocated for all retinal detachment surgeries.
- Gentamicin demonstrates a favorable safety profile for this surgical indication.