Effects of povidone-iodine chemical preparation and saline irrigation on the perilimbal flora

Abstract

Purpose: To analyze the effects of 5% povidone-iodine preparation and saline irrigation on the species composition of perilimbal flora.

Methods: Cultures were taken from the perilimbal conjunctiva in 100 eyes before preparation for ophthalmic surgery, after instillation of povidone-iodine solution, and after saline irrigation.

Results: Bacteria were isolated in 75% of eyes before preparation, in 28% after povidone-iodine instillation, and in 24% after saline irrigation. Fifty-one culture-positive eyes became negative with povidone-iodine, while only four culture-negative eyes became culture-positive (P < 0.001). The number of eyes yielding coagulase-negative staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus, and Propionibacterium were significantly decreased after povidone-iodine instillation. Twenty-three culture-positive eyes became negative after saline irrigation, while 19 culture-negative eyes became culture-positive (P > 0.25).

Conclusion: Povidone-iodine solution is effective in reducing bacterial recovery from the perilimbal conjunctiva, where most incisions for intraocular surgery occur. Saline irrigation after povidone-iodine preparation has no significant effect.