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 outpatient centers
A new large-scale 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 20,000 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.