Antimicrobial Effect of Ultraviolet C (UV-C) Light Compared to Standard Povidone-Iodine Protocol for Preoperative Disinfection of the Periocular Area

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the antimicrobial effect of 275 nm wavelength ultraviolet C (UV-C) light on the periocular area of canine eyes for preoperative disinfection compared to standard 10% povidone-iodine (PI) solution preparation. Methods: The upper and lower eyelids of six research-bred beagles were equally divided into two sections (medial and lateral). Each section received periocular cleansing with one of the following treatments: (1) saline, (2) baby shampoo, (3) baby shampoo and PI solution, or (4) baby shampoo and UV-C light therapy. Routine bacterial culture swabs were used to collect samples from the designated areas 30 min after the respective treatments. Results: Bacterial counts were significantly higher in eyelids treated with saline compared to UV-C light and PI treatments, respectively. The bacterial counts were significantly higher in the saline-treated eyelids compared to baby shampoo, PI, and UV-C treatments in the upper medial eyelid location. The remainder of the eyelid locations were not statistically significant between groups. One dog developed contact dermatitis after receiving PI cleansing. None of the dogs developed serious complications related to the disinfection techniques. Conclusion: UV-C light treatment (combined with baby shampoo) is comparable to PI solution (combined with baby shampoo) in reducing the number of bacteria on the periocular surface; no adverse eyelid effects were noted after UV-C light exposure.