A survey of ocular perforation during ophthalmic local anaesthesia in the United Kingdom

A survey of local anaesthetic related ocular perforation in the United Kingdom is reported. A total of 531 consultant ophthalmologists were sent a postal questionnaire and there was a 71% response rate. Thirty respondents reported 39 perforations occurring under their care during the previous year. Details of the cases are presented. The rate of local anaesthetic related ocular perforation is higher than in previous reported series. Efforts to reduce the incidence will require consideration of alternative techniques, audit, and training.