Publication: Considerations in the use of slit lamp shields to reduce the risk of respiratory virus transmission in coronavirus disease 2019
Issued Date
2020-09-01
Resource Type
ISSN
15317021
Other identifier(s)
2-s2.0-85089302211
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Mahidol University
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SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Current opinion in ophthalmology. Vol.31, No.5 (2020), 374-379
Suggested Citation
Sze C. Ong, Jun X. Yap, Terrence Y.F. Tay, Yin Mo, Seng C. Loon, Victor Koh Considerations in the use of slit lamp shields to reduce the risk of respiratory virus transmission in coronavirus disease 2019. Current opinion in ophthalmology. Vol.31, No.5 (2020), 374-379. doi:10.1097/ICU.0000000000000690 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/58022
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Title
Considerations in the use of slit lamp shields to reduce the risk of respiratory virus transmission in coronavirus disease 2019
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The use of slit lamp shields has been recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology as an infection control measure during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. However, there is limited evidence regarding its efficacy to reduce viral transmission risks. We aim to provide an evidence-based approach to optimize the use of slit lamp shields during clinical examination. RECENT FINDINGS: Respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing can travel up to 50 m/s and over a distance of 2 m, with a potential area of spread of 616 cm. Slit lamp shields confer added protection against large droplets but are limited against smaller particles. A larger shield curved toward the ophthalmologist and positioned closer to the patient increases protection against large droplets. A potential improvement to the design of such shields is the use of hydrophilic materials with antiviral properties which may help to minimize splashing of infectious droplets, reducing transmission risks. These include gold or silver nanoparticles and graphene oxide. SUMMARY: Slit lamp shields serve as a barrier for large droplets, but its protection against smaller droplets is undetermined. It should be large, positioned close to the patient, and used in tandem with routine basic disinfection practices.