Research and publications
Explore ACCESS' research on private surgical facilities—peer-reviewed studies, reports, and data advancing patient care and access.
New study confirms safety of high-volume eye surgery in community surgical facilities
A recent large-scale Canadian study has found that modern cataract and lens replacement surgeries are safer than ever when performed in outpatient surgical centers that follow strict, standardized protocols. Researchers reviewed nearly 190,000 eye surgeries across 54 centers and discovered that serious complications were extremely rare: fewer than 1 in 19,000 patients experienced a toxic reaction (TASS), and fewer than 1 in 60,000 developed an infection inside the eye (endophthalmitis).
Importantly, all patients who did experience complications recovered with prompt treatment, and no outbreaks or “clusters” of cases occurred. The findings support the safety of performing both eyes on the same day—a convenient option that saves time for patients and reduces strain on the healthcare system.
This groundbreaking research reinforces that with the right protocols, outpatient centers can deliver world-class safety, efficiency, and outcomes for patients seeking clearer vision.
New review shows oral sedation is a safe, modern alternative to IV sedation for cataract surgery
A new meta analysis of 12 clinical studies has found that patients undergoing routine cataract surgery experience the same level of safety and comfort whether they receive intravenous (IV) sedation or a simple oral sedative pill.
The review included more than 1,100 patients and showed that oral sedation keeps people just as relaxed during surgery, with no increase in complications.
Importantly, oral sedation offers a more modern, streamlined approach to cataract care. Unlike IV sedation, it doesn’t require an IV line, a dedicated anesthesia nurse, or additional monitoring equipment. For patients who prefer to avoid needles, or simply want a smoother, less medicalized experience, oral sedation can be a welcome alternative.
Because both methods are equally safe and effective, this research supports giving patients and community surgical centers the flexibility to choose the sedation approach that best fits their needs, while also reducing resource use and improving clinic efficiency.