Abstract

Purpose: To determine if the use of lidocaine gel before application of povidone iodine affects endophthalmitis rates following intravitreal injections. Methods: Retrospective consecutive case series of all intravitreal injections (IVIs) at a single academic institution (Stanford University Medical Center) from 1/1/2000 to 12/31/2009. IVIs performed for endophthalmitis treatment were excluded. This was a retrospective review of medical records (charts and electronic records). Results: When no lidocaine gel was used, four cases of endophthalmitis following 4120 (0.097%) IVIs were recorded. When 2% lidocaine gel was applied before antiseptic, four cases of endophthalmitis following 4682 (0.085%) IVIs were observed (p=0.8558). Conclusion: The use of lidocaine gel prior to povidine iodine does not significantly alter post-injection endophthalmitis rates.