Fire Hazard During Ophthalmic Surgery

Abstract

A plastic surgical drape was ignited by a disposable cautery during cataract surgery performed under local anesthesia. The flame was quickly extinguished, and the procedure was completed without complications. The patient did well postoperatively and attained a corrected visual acuity of 20/25. Precautions should be taken to minimize the possibility of fire occurring during ophthalmic surgery.