• R Goyal, J Shankar, D L Fone, and D S Hughes.
• Department of Ophthalmology, St. Woolos Hospital, Newport, Wales.
• Acta Ophthalmol Scand. 2001 Apr 1; 79 (2): 177-9.

PurposeTo evaluate the role of topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) in the management of corneal abrasions with respect to symptoms and healing.MethodsThe study was designed as a prospective, single center, randomised, placebo controlled, double-blinded trial. Eighty-eight consecutive patients with non-infective, non-contact lens related traumatic or foreign body removal related corneal abrasions were recruited to this study. They were randomised into two groups. Both groups were given a single instillation of Gutt. cyclopentolate 0.5% followed by chloramphenicol eye ointment four times a day until the following day. In addition, the treatment group received topical Ketorolac trometamol 0.5% ophthalmic solution while the control group received placebo Liquifilm tears. Patients were assessed at presentation and about twenty-four hours later for subjective symptoms, abrasion size and any associated complications.ResultsThere was no statistical difference in the two groups at base line and twenty-four hour follow-up when assessed for five subjective symptoms of pain, photophobia, grittiness, watering and blurring of vision. However, those receiving topical ketorolac required significantly less additional oral analgesics (p=0.001). There was no difference in the rate of healing.ConclusionUse of topical ketorolac may be a useful adjunct in the management of corneal abrasions.

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