Bacterial endophthalmitis following sutureless cataract surgery.

We examined a patient who developed group G streptococcal endophthalmitis following phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation and sutureless wound closure. Pathologic examination of the enucleated globe 1 month after surgery revealed an intense suppurative reaction centered in the anterior chamber and an open surgical wound filled with fibrinopurulent granulation tissue. Inadequate draping, a high number of instruments passing into and out of the eye during surgery, and wound testing for water tightness with viscoelastic substance in the eye were observed on a videotape of the surgery.