Rogan Fraser1, Mark Walland2, Elsie Chan3, Carmel Crock4. 1. MD, Ophthalmology registrar, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Vic. 2. FRANZCO, FRACS, Ophthalmologist and immediate past Chair RANZCO Victorian Qualification and Education Committee, Vic. 3. FRANZCO, Ophthalmologist and Corneal Staff Specialist, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Vic. 4. FACEM, Director, Emergency Department, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Vic.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Recent publications have suggested that topical anaesthetic eye drops can be used safely and are effective in providing pain relief for the treatment of corneal abrasions. Complications resulting from the injudicious prescribing of topical anaesthetic eye drops are seen with some frequency in the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital's (RVEEH's) emergency department. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to review the literature and provide a clinical perspective to challenge the safety of topical anaesthetic eye drops for corneal abrasions. DISCUSSION: The literature relevant to this clinical question is reviewed, with an emphasis on a critical evaluation of the publications in question. Cases from the RVEEH are used for illustrative purpose. An alternative option for analgesia is suggested.
BACKGROUND: Recent publications have suggested that topical anaesthetic eye drops can be used safely and are effective in providing pain relief for the treatment of corneal abrasions. Complications resulting from the injudicious prescribing of topical anaesthetic eye drops are seen with some frequency in the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital's (RVEEH's) emergency department. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to review the literature and provide a clinical perspective to challenge the safety of topical anaesthetic eye drops for corneal abrasions. DISCUSSION: The literature relevant to this clinical question is reviewed, with an emphasis on a critical evaluation of the publications in question. Cases from the RVEEH are used for illustrative purpose. An alternative option for analgesia is suggested.