[Perioperative prevention in ophthalmologic microsurgery].

The possible causes of intraocular infections after microsurgical operations on the eye are discussed. Extensive experiments were carried out to investigate infection caused by the patient himself, by the surgeon and by the surgical surroundings. To consider the different aspects involved in "perioperative prophylaxis", we examined the preoperative, intra- and postoperative periods. Conjunctival diagnostics, disinfection of the conjunctival sac, and the operating area were investigated for the preoperative period. Microbiological examinations were carried out to check the possibility of contamination of eye drops, the operating theatre equipment, and of microscopes, etc. The sterilization of microsurgical instruments using different procedures was checked in particular. During the intraoperative period surgical clothing like face masks, gloves and gowns were examined. Sterile sheets for the patient, including an analysis of the respiratory air under the sheet, were monitored. The results are evaluated with respect to their significance for perioperative prophylaxis and the practical consequences for optimal prevention of infection.