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Bacterial contamination of the pressure receiver of a vitrectomy machine
1Universitäts-Augenklinik Freiburg, Germany.
Abstract:
On a routine sterility check, the authors found bacteria in their vitrectomy machine. Serratia marcescens was detected in the pressure receiver of a roller pump vitrectomy machine. The authors improved the machine by installing a millipore filter in front of the receiver that prevents bacteria from entering it without interfering with the pressure measurements. The origin of Serratia was probably a patient with endophthalmitis who was operated on long before the routine check. Although this appears to be the first report of a bacterial contamination of a vitrectomy machine, the results of testing show that this situation is indeed possible. The authors strongly recommend routine checks of the equipment and suggest mounting an antibacterial filter.
Insights
Routine sterility checks revealed Serratia marcescens bacteria in a vitrectomy machine. Installing a millipore filter prevented contamination without affecting pressure measurements, highlighting the need for equipment checks.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Device Sterilization
- Microbiology
Background:
- Bacterial contamination of surgical equipment poses a significant risk to patient safety.
- Vitrectomy machines, essential for ophthalmic surgery, have not been previously reported as potential sources of bacterial contamination.
- Serratia marcescens, an opportunistic pathogen, can cause serious infections, including endophthalmitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first instance of bacterial contamination in a vitrectomy machine.
- To identify the contaminating bacterium and its likely source.
- To propose a method for preventing future contamination.
Main Methods:
- A routine sterility check of a roller pump vitrectomy machine was performed.
- Serratia marcescens was identified in the pressure receiver of the machine.
- A millipore filter was installed in front of the pressure receiver to prevent bacterial ingress.
Main Results:
- Serratia marcescens was successfully detected and identified in the vitrectomy machine's pressure receiver.
- The installed millipore filter effectively prevented bacterial entry without compromising machine function or pressure readings.
- The likely source of contamination was traced to a patient with endophthalmitis operated on previously.
Conclusions:
- Vitrectomy machines are susceptible to bacterial contamination, potentially originating from patients with infections like endophthalmitis.
- Routine sterility checks of ophthalmic surgical equipment are crucial.
- Mounting antibacterial filters on vitrectomy machines is a recommended preventative measure to ensure patient safety.