Needle sterility during strabismus surgery

Background: Infection after strabismus surgery is uncommon and its cause remains unanswered. The source of the bacteria and the manner in which it enters the eye is often unknown. Most pediatric ophthalmologists now use 5% povidone-iodine to reduce the bacterial population before surgery. The needles used during strabismus surgery may be a source of bacterial contamination. Methods: One hundred six needles were cultured after their use in strabismus surgery. Results: Sixteen of 106 needles (15.1%) and 15 of 61 cases (24.6%) were culture positive. The organisms recovered closely resembled indigenous bacterial flora. Conclusion: This study suggests that the needles used during strabismus surgery may be the source of bacteria that can lead to infections after strabismus surgery.