Investigation Of Microplastics (Mp) Exposure In Cataract Surgery

The potential health risks associated with microplastic (MP) exposure have been a significant global concern and many plastic products are used in cataract surgery. Our study aimed to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of MP exposure during cataract surgery.

In vitro study

The numbers and characteristics of MPs were investigated in irrigation saline, balanced salt solution (BSS), viscosurgical device, intraocular inflow and outflow fluid through phaco machine, and operating room (OR) indoor air during cataract surgery. Raman spectroscopy was used to identify the size and characteristics of MPs. Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy was used to examine surface morphologies of MPs.

MPs were detected in the inflow from phaco machine into eyes (0.07±0.06/mL), outflow from eyes into phaco machine (19.70±24.06/mL), and OR indoor air (0.18±0.05/mL). A significantly greater number of MPs were identified in the outflow compared to the inflow. In the inflow, only fragments were observed, whereas in the outflow, both fragments (95.7%) and fibers (4.3%) were detected. With regard to size, only MPs sized 10–19 µm were detected in inflow, whereas smaller MPs sized 5–9 µm (30.9%) were additionally detected in outflow. Regarding polymer type, the inflow exhibited only PE or PP types, while the outflow revealed the presence of PE (95.3%), PP (4.3%), PS (0.3%), and PET (0.1%).

MPs could enter the eye during cataract surgery, potentially originating from surgical instruments or the indoor environment. Also, MPs may be present in the lens or intraocular fluid of cataract patients.