The effectiveness and safety of single-use disposable instruments in cataract surgery--a clinical study using a surgeon-based survey.
OBJECTIVE
To compare ease of use, handling, defects and complication rates between single use and reusable instruments in cataract surgery.


METHODS
Prospective questionnaire-based study involving ophthalmic surgeons operating during a one-year period.


RESULTS
Results showed better scores in relation to questions regarding ease of use and handling for permanent instruments (p < 0.0001). Two complications out of 93 procedures were reported in the reusable group (2.2%) compared to six out of 157 in the disposable group (3.8%) (p = 0.4681).


CONCLUSIONS
Disposable instruments in cataract surgery are an acceptable and safe alternative to reusable ones.
Gupta
A
A
Calderdale Royal Infirmary, Halifax
Mercieca
K
K
Fahad
B
B
Biswas
S
S
D002387:Cataract Extraction / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004209:Disposable Equipment; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom