Introduction
The World Health Organization states that climate change is the leading threat to global health, and the healthcare system is a significant contributor to waste and greenhouse gases.
Ophthalmic Surgical Waste
Ophthalmic procedures, such as cataract surgeries, generate significant waste, including paper instructions for use (IFU) that accompany most devices and supplies.
Electronic Instructions for Use (e-IFU)
e-IFU can reduce waste and carbon emissions by replacing paper IFU. Regulatory agencies, such as the European Union Medical Device Regulation (MDR) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), permit e-IFU.
Benefits of e-IFU
e-IFU can reduce product paperwork, production costs, and waste. They also provide easier access to information, allow for faster updates, and can be viewed on various devices.
Challenges and Recommendations
Barriers to e-IFU adoption include varying and inconsistent IFU requirements between countries, manufacturer liability, and cost. The authors recommend that surgical manufacturers replace paper IFU with e-IFU whenever possible.
Manual:
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