From the Guidelines
Systane (polyethylene glycol 400 and propylene glycol) should be used for at least 1 month after the procedure, as part of a step-wise treatment and management of postsurgical dry eye disease (DED) 1. The treatment and management of postsurgical DED is crucial for promoting healing and reducing complications. According to the consensus report by the Taiwan Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons 1, the use of artificial tears, such as Systane, is recommended as part of step B in the treatment and management of postsurgical DED. Some key points to consider when using Systane after a procedure include:
- Using preservative-free artificial tears, such as Systane, is preferred for patients with an obvious lesion 1
- Lubricating ointments or gels, such as Systane, are recommended for patients with postsurgical DED 1
- The use of Systane should be continued until the condition subsides, or as directed by the doctor 1 It is essential to follow the doctor's specific instructions for using Systane after a procedure, as they may recommend a different duration or frequency of use based on the individual patient's needs. Additionally, patients should be educated on proper lid hygiene and the use of sterilized single-pack wet wipes to remove excess oily discharge, especially within the first month following surgery 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Directions adults and children 6 years of age and over: put 1 or 2 drops in the affected eye(s) as needed Stop use and ask a doctor if ... condition worsens or lasts more than 72 hours
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Duration of Systane Use
- The duration of Systane use after a procedure can vary depending on the specific procedure and individual patient needs.
- According to a study published in 2008 2, Systane was used for 30 days following LASIK surgery to relieve dry eye symptoms.
- Another study from 2013 3 used Systane for 3 months in patients after LASIK surgery to assess dry eye signs and symptoms.
- A study published in 2007 4 used Systane for 3 weeks after cataract surgery to prevent signs and symptoms of tear film insufficiency.
- A 2013 study 5 compared the efficacy and safety of Systane with another ophthalmic solution in patients with dry eye, with treatment lasting for 2 months.
- However, it is essential to note that the optimal duration of Systane use may depend on individual patient responses and the specific procedure performed, as seen in a 2020 study 6 where the perioperative use of a different ophthalmic solution was evaluated for preventing post-cataract surgery dry-eye disease.
Factors Influencing Duration of Use
- The type of procedure (e.g., LASIK, cataract surgery) may influence the duration of Systane use.
- Individual patient needs and responses to treatment may also affect the duration of use.
- The presence of dry eye symptoms or other ocular conditions may require longer or shorter treatment durations.