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Surgeon asks for silence while delivering intravitreal injections
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 Colin A. McCannel |
ORLANDO, Fla. — Endophthalmitis following intravitreal injection of anti-angiogenic agents is rare, with reports ranging from one in 1,200 to one in 5,233, but the consequences are devastating, a speaker told colleagues here.
One way for retina specialists to prevent transmission of oral streptococcal pathogens while delivering intravitreal injections is to not speak during drug delivery, Colin A. McCannel, MD, said at Retina Subspecialty Day preceding the American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting.
There are considerable differences in colonization on culture plates between persons speaking with and without a face mask and between persons speaking with a face mask and those who are silent, Dr. McCannel said.
Current published consensus recommendations include use of povidone-iodine and a lid speculum during intravitreal injections.
"However, there is no recommendation for a face mask," Dr. McCannel said. "I propose ... that retina specialists should consider not talking or, if talking, to wear a face mask during injection."
Furthermore, Dr. McCannel suggested that patients be asked not to speak as well.
- Disclosure: Dr. McCannel has financial interests or relationships with Savvient Inc., Genentech and Alimera Sciences.