Multisociety task force disputes need for routine high-level disinfection

A multisociety task force assessed whether high-level disinfection (HLD) of reusable ophthalmic devices such as tonometer tips and gonioscopy lenses is necessary, and reported finding no published evidence these devices transmit sight-threatening infections or that HLD reduces transmission compared with lower-level methods. The task force notes that routine chemical HLD reduces clinic efficiency, increases costs and waste, and may damage devices, and states that 88% of surveyed ophthalmologists agreed HLD should not be required for routine care, reserving it as a discretionary option in higher-risk situations such as suspected infection. This position statement was approved by the American Academy of Ophthalmology Board of Trustees and endorsed by four subspecialty societies.

Most relevant for: Clinics and surgical facilities performing routine ophthalmic exams using reusable tonometry, gonioscopy, and laser lenses that contact the ocular surface.

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