Sterile hypopyon following intraocular lens surgery
D. W. Meltzer
Energy-dispersive x-ray analysis (EDXA) was used to study nine intraocular
lenses from one manufacturer. Residual polishing compound was found on two
of three dry-sterilized lenses from a "hot lot" associated with a high
incidence of sterile hypopyon. Similar material was not present on normal
lenses. This polishing compound was apparently fused to the lens surface,
preventing its removal by ultrasonic cleaning. In addition, three
wet-sterilized lenses were found to be covered with small crystals
containing barium. These crystals apparently resulted from leaching of the
glass storage vial by the caustic storage fluid. It is suggested that some
cases of sterile hypopyon following intraocular lens surgery may be caused
by residual polishing compound present on the lens surface.
