Bleb leaks are clues to blebitis, endophthalmitis

LAS VEGAS — Bleb leaks are “the single-most important predictive factor for blebitis and endophthalmitis,” according to a surgeon speaking here. Therefore, surgeons must tell patients to call the practice if they notice any symptoms of bleb leakage.

“This will help you to protect your patients from the ultimate demise,” said Gregg Heatley, MD, here at the Ocular Surgery News Symposium, Glaucoma: Improving Your Odds. “Earlier treatment is always better.”

Dr. Heatley advised that fluoroquinolones should be administered preoperatively, but he warned that prophylactic antibiotics “may not prophylax.”

He said aggressive surgical treatment may be indicated in patients with blebitis.