Simplified Anesthetic Management Protocol for Cataract Surgery at Hassan II Military Hospital – Laâyoune
Abstract:
Objective: To propose a simplified anesthetic protocol for cataract surgery without systematic pre-anesthetic consultation (PAC), aimed at optimizing resources while ensuring patient safety.
Methods: A prospective study conducted over two years (2022–2024) in the Ophthalmology Department of Hassan II Military Hospital, Laâyoune. Patients without predefined risk factors were exempted from PAC. Local anesthesia was administered using topical anesthetic drops, occasionally complemented by sub-Tenon lidocaine 1%. An anesthesia nurse monitored the patient and managed minor intraoperative incidents.
Results: Among 853 cataract surgeries performed, 730 (86%) followed the simplified protocol. Intraoperative incidents were rare: seven hypertensive peaks, three cases of agitation, and no conversions to general anesthesia.
Conclusion: The simplified protocol proved safe and effective for the majority of patients, with a very low rate of incidents. It provides a pragmatic solution in contexts where anesthetic resources are limited.
KeyWords:
cataract, local anesthesia, pre-anesthetic consultation, perioperative safety, simplified protocol.
References:
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