Eyelid scrub

Many practitioners believe that prevention of postoperative infection begins with preoperative management of the cataract patient. Some advocate the use of eyelid scrubs or a topical broad-spectrum antibiotic fiar several days before surgery. This is particularly important with patients who have preexisting conditions, such as conjunctivitis, dacryocystitis, or chronic bacterial blepharitis. Ophthalmic surgeons often administer topical antibiotics within 1 to 2 hours preoperatively to prevent woimd infection. 

Although baby shampoo is frequently used for cleaning the eyeUd margin, commercially available eyelid cleansers are effective, with potentially less ocular stinging, burning, or toxicity. Commercial lid scrub products are designed to aid in removal of oils, debris, or desquamated skin from the inflamed eyelid. The lid scrubs can... 

Figure 3-11 Technique of lid scrub. Drug application to the lid margin is accomplished with a cotton-tipped applicator applied to the opened (A) or closed (B) eyelids.

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