Vision vigilance: Eye protection audit during general anesthesia in university hospital of north midlands and county hospital, Staffordshire, United Kingdom

10^th International Conference on Surgery and Anaesthesia

May 19-20, 2025 Zurich, Switzerland

Anjuman Rahman

University Hospitals of North Midlands, United Kingdom

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: Surgery

Abstract :

Background: Eye injuries, such as corneal abrasions, are recognized complications of general anesthesia (GA).
This audit investigates the effectiveness of eye protection measures used during GA at University Hospital of
North Midlands, focusing on the incidence of postoperative eye symptoms.
Methods: Data were collected from 51 GA cases between April 25, 2024, and May 15, 2024, at County and Royal
Stoke Hospitals. The audit assessed the type of eye protection used, patient demographics, surgical factors, and
incidence of postoperative eye symptoms.
Results: Out of 51 patients, 7 (14%) reported postoperative eye symptoms, including redness (5), blurring (5),
pain (1), temporary loss of vision (1), and photophobia (1). Most symptoms resolved spontaneously within 15
minutes. Patients aged 30-50 reported the highest incidence of symptoms, with no significant gender difference.
Eye tape alone was the most common protection method used (42 out of 50 patients).
Discussion: The audit highlights the need for enhanced eye protection protocols, especially for procedures in
high-risk positions. While our use of eye protection has been largely effective, opportunities exist to further
reduce the incidence of postoperative eye symptoms
Conclusion: Effective eye protection is crucial to prevent corneal abrasions during GA. Recommendations
include improving the application of eye protection, ensuring proper lid closure, and instituting a protocol for
immediate escalation if symptoms fail to resolve sponataneously. We aim to establish comprehensive guidelines
for perioperative eye protection and follow up care in case of eye injuries.
Recent Publications
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www.msjonline.org. pISSN 2320-6071 | eISSN 2320-6012
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• Grover V.K., Kumar K.V., Sharma S., et al. Comparison of methods of eye protection under general
anaesthesia. Can J Anaesth. 1998;45:575–577

Biography :

Anjuman Rahman is a Specialty Doctor in Anaesthetics at the University Hospital of North Midlands. She began her medical journey in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, graduating from medical school there. Dr. Rahman then received anaesthesia training at Tawam Hospital in Al Ain, UAE, before advancing her career in the UK. She has a keen interest in research, quality improvement, and medical education. Passionate about advancing clinical practices, Dr. Rahman is dedicated to contributing to the academic growth of future healthcare professionals through teaching and mentorship.