Drug screening in patients with open globe injury

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose:To determine the incidence of positive urine drug screening and serious general anesthesia–related adverse effects in patients who present with open globe injury to a tertiary referral center. Methods:A computer–generated review of patient database was conducted to identify all patients who presented with open globe injury between July 1998 and December 2002. Data was collected on the results of urine drug screening test, demographics, and other pertinent clinical information. Results:Of 180 consecutive patients who presented with open globe injuries, 117 met criteria for urine drug screening. Of the 117 screened patients, 62 (53%) had positive tests. Of these 62 patients, 23 were positive for cocaine, 22 for alcohol, 20 for opiates, 11 for marijuana, 1 for PCP, 2 for salicylates, 2 for amphetamine, and 15 had positive screening results for multiple drugs. After a minimum twelve hour observation period, all patients underwent repair of the open globe injury under general anesthesia. None of the patients experienced any serious or significant anesthesia–related morbidity or mortality. Conclusions:A significant number of patients who present with open globe injury will have positive urine drug screens. However, these patients may safely undergo repair of open globe under general anesthesia provided twelve hours have elapsed since the time of presentation.

Keywords: trauma