Read the latest RCOphth news updates and guidance here.
Allergan Pharmaceuticals Ireland is recalling numerous batches of Ozurdex due to the possibility that a single loose silicone particle of approximately 300 microns in diameter may become detached from the needle sleeve during administration of the implant and may be delivered into the eye along with the implant.
The College has received queries from members to clarify whether there is a specific cut off for glycaemic control, either measured via HbA1C or a blood glucose level on the day, beyond which it is unsafe to proceed with cataract surgery.
There are a range of cefuroxime preparations currently in use for the prevention of endophthalmitis in intraocular surgery. The College recommends that for those using a non licensed product, users should check the SmPCs and avoid use of any product which specifically cautions against intraocular use.
The NHS Improvement national patient safety team have informed the College of the continued trend of incidents involving issues with detachment of cannulas during ophthalmic surgery (cannula-associated ocular injury, COI). The cannula is usually attached to either a saline or a viscoelastic syringe. The combination of a small lumen and plunger pressure can result in significant hydraulic force. If the cannula does detach, it can cause extensive damage to the globe with resultant visual impairment.
