Trypan Blue

TyBlue is indicated for use as an aid in ophthalmic surgery by staining the anterior capsule of the lens.

Trypan Blue is a selective tissue staining agent (dye) which stains anterior lens capsule of the human crystalline lens. The dye does not penetrate the capsule, permitting visualization of the anterior capsule in contrast to the non-stained lens cortex and inner lens material.

The first step to administer Trypan Blue is to inject an air bubble into the anterior chamber using a 26 gauge needle. It prevents dilution of dye by the aqueous humor. Then Trypan Blue is injected into the anterior lens capsule using a tuberculin syringe. Sufficient staining is achieved as soon as the dye has contracted the capsule. If some area is left unstained, inject one more drop till it gets stained.

Discoloration of high water content hydrogen intraocular lenses. Inadvertent staining of the posterior lens capsule and vitreous face. It is generally self limited, lasting up to one week.

Trypan Blue is contraindicated when a non-hydrated (dry state), hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens (IOL) is planned to be inserted into the eye because the dye may be absorbed by the IOL and stain the IOL.