This article is more than 5 years old. Information may no longer be current.
Antibiotic-soaked IOLs possibly more effective than topical and intracameral delivery
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts
STOCKHOLM, Sweden — Antibiotic-soaked hydrophilic IOLs may be an alternative to intracameral antibiotics in the prevention of endophthalmitis following cataract surgery, according to Randall J. Olson, MD, speaking at the meeting of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive surgeons.
"The emerging resistance to antibiotics, topical and intracameral, may push this more aggressive approach," he said.
In a study, the efficacy of antibiotic-soaked IOLs using 0.3% gatifloxacin and 0.5% moxifloxacine was evaluated and compared with topical administration of the same agents, according to Dr. Olson. Antibiotic concentration was evaluated at 4, 8 and 12 hours.
IOL-delivered antibiotic concentration was significantly higher at all three time points with gatifloxacin, and at 4 and 8 hours with moxifloxacin. No sign of toxicity was reported.
"IOLs soaked with antibiotic can provide a high level of antibiotic concentration for 8 to 12 hours. If an even more aggressive approach is needed, supplementation with topical or even intracameral delivery can be provided," Dr. Olson said.
In the future, new IOL materials could be developed for better penetration and concentration of antibiotics, and pre-soaked lenses could be provided.
"We should also create an IOL that releases antibiotics more slowly for prolonged effect," Dr. Olson said.