AIM—In the light of interest being shown in amniotic membrane grafts for use in ocular surgery, this study aims to identify the bacterial contaminants commonly found on placental membranes from both caesarean and vaginal deliveries. METHODS—Samples of placental membrane were taken following both elective caesarean and normal vaginal deliveries. Bacterial contaminants were identified. RESULTS—All samples were contaminated. A greater number of different species were recovered from the vaginal deliveries, including several which were actually or potentially pathogenic. CONCLUSION—There is a greater risk of contamination from pathogenic bacteria on placentas from vaginal deliveries. It is recommended that amnion for use in ocular surface procedures should be retrieved only from placentas following elective caesarean deliveries.
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