Miao Y. Lim, Keith Ong

Purpose: For over 10 years, there have been zero cases of post-operative endophthalmitis (POE) after cataract surgery at Chatswood Private Hospital. We conducted a retrospective audit study to evaluate the reasons for this, as well as the different preferences for route of antibiotic prophylaxis used.

Methods: Deidentified data on cataract surgery cases between the years 2010-2020 were extracted and analysed descriptively.

Results: A total of 28,937 cataract surgery cases were performed at Chatswood Private Hospital from 2010-2020, for which no cases of POE were identified. The intracameral route for antibiotic prophylaxis was more commonly used compared to sub-conjunctival or both.

Conclusion: Administration of prophylactic antibiotics, regardless of the route of administration, is beneficial and equally effective in preventing POE. Having operating theatres dedicated to ophthalmology helps maintain high standards of sterility of instrumentation and operating environments.