Indications
Balanced Salt Solution (BSS) is a sterile irrigating solution used by eye surgeons during eye operations, such as cataract surgery, to rinse the eye and keep its tissues moist. Some products are also used to wash the surface of the eye during examinations or procedures. It is not a medicine for home treatment of eye conditions.
How It Works
The solution contains sodium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, sodium acetate and sodium citrate in amounts similar to the natural fluids of the eye. It has a matching salt balance and acidity, so it can replace or wash eye fluid during surgery while protecting the delicate inner layers, such as the cornea.
Dosage and Administration
It is used only by a doctor or trained staff in an operating theatre or clinic, in the amount needed for the procedure, as directed on the pack. It is for irrigation only and must not be injected into a vein. Each container is for single use in one patient; any leftover solution is discarded.
Interactions
No significant drug interactions are known. Other medicines are not added to the solution unless the product instructions allow it.
Contraindications
There are no specific contraindications when used as directed. Do not use if the solution is cloudy, discoloured or the container is damaged or unsealed.
Side Effects
Side effects are uncommon. After eye surgery there may be temporary eye irritation, redness, cloudiness or swelling of the cornea, or inflammation inside the eye, which may also be related to the surgery itself.
Get urgent medical help after eye surgery if you have severe or increasing eye pain, sudden loss or worsening of vision, increasing redness, discharge, or flashes and new floaters.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Its ingredients are similar to normal body fluids and it is not expected to cause harm during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The surgeon will decide on its use.
Precautions and Warnings
For irrigation of the eye only; not for injection or infusion. Use only sterile, unopened containers and discard any unused solution. Use with caution in people with diabetes having eye surgery that involves the inner eye, as corneal swelling can be more likely; the surgeon will manage this.
Overdose
Overdose is not expected when used for eye irrigation by trained staff.
Therapeutic Class
Ophthalmic irrigating solution
Storage
Hospital product: store as directed on the pack, usually below 30°C, do not freeze, and keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.