Research Article
Published: May 22, 2026 DOI: 10.33552/WJOVR.2026.05.000622
Abstract: Purpose: Cataract Surgery Is An Inherently Safe Procedure. The Use Of Luer Lock Syringes Is Standard Practice However, Despite That Ocular Harm Is Still Occurring Due To The Cannula Shooting Off The End Of The Syringe Into The Eye, Damaging Ocular Structures And Resulting In Visual Loss Or Even Blindness. We Discuss The Issue, Review The Published Data, And Suggest A Simple Solution. Methods: Review Of The Literature And Discussion Of Potential Solution. Results: This Has Been Reported Extensively In The Literature And Has Been The Subject Of Two Recent Safety Alerts By The Royal College Of Ophthalmologists In England. There Are Significant Health Economic Costs Associated With This Issue. Based On Published Data And The Incidence Estimates Derived From Survey Data, Applying US Litigation Rates Conservatively And Reducing By 80% To Account For International Variation, Litigation Costs Alone May Exceed $418M Per Year Worldwide. Additional Costs From Managing Complications Such As Posterior Capsule Rupture Are Estimated At Approximately $254M Per Year Globally. These Figures Are Likely Significant Underestimates Given The Well-recognised Under-reporting Of This Complication. Conclusion: There Is A Fundamental Need For A Simple, Cheap And Effective Solution Which Is Described. The Issue Is Reviewed And A Safe, Cheap And Easily Manufactured Solution Which Should Potentially Be Adopted By All Intraocular Surgery Providers To Abolish This Cause Of Avoidable Harm Is Suggested. Viscoelastic Providers And Surgical Pack Providers Are Encouraged To Utilise Or Develop A Safety Device To Prevent This Complication.
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