From the Guidelines
Treatment for corneal abrasion typically involves pain management, prevention of infection, and promotion of healing, with the most recent evidence suggesting the use of topical ophthalmic NSAIDs such as ketorolac 0.5% drops 4 times daily for 3-5 days, and antibiotic eye drops like moxifloxacin 0.5% 4 times daily for 5-7 days, as recommended by the most recent study 1. The goal of treatment is to reduce pain, prevent infection, and promote healing of the corneal epithelium.
- Pain relief can be achieved with oral analgesics like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and topical ophthalmic NSAIDs.
- Prevention of infection is crucial, especially in patients who wear contact lenses, and can be achieved with broad-spectrum topical antibiotics like moxifloxacin 0.5% 4 times daily for 5-7 days, as shown in the study 1.
- Promotion of healing can be facilitated by avoiding wearing contact lenses until the abrasion is fully healed, and not using eye patching, which may increase infection risk, as noted in the study 1. Some key points to consider in the treatment of corneal abrasion include:
- The use of cycloplegic agents like cyclopentolate 1% to reduce pain from ciliary muscle spasm.
- The importance of follow-up with an eye care professional if symptoms worsen or don't improve within 2-3 days.
- The corneal epithelium's remarkable regenerative capabilities, with cells migrating from the periphery to cover the defect, followed by cell proliferation to restore normal thickness, as discussed in the study 1. It's also important to note that the treatment should be tailored to the individual patient's needs, and that the most recent evidence should be taken into account when making treatment decisions, as shown in the study 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
INDICATIONS AND USAGE: For the treatment of superficial ocular infections involving the conjunctiva and/or cornea caused by Bacitracin susceptible organisms. The treatment for corneal abrasion may include bacitracin ophthalmic ointment if the abrasion is caused by a Bacitracin susceptible organism, as it is indicated for the treatment of superficial ocular infections involving the cornea 2.
- The ointment should be applied directly into the conjunctival sac 1 to 3 times daily 2.
- It is essential to note that the treatment should only be used if the corneal abrasion is caused by a susceptible organism.
From the Research
Treatment for Corneal Abrasion
The treatment for corneal abrasion typically involves a combination of symptomatic relief and preventive measures to avoid infection. Some key points to consider include:
- Symptomatic treatment, such as foreign body removal and analgesia with topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or oral analgesics, is recommended 3.
- Topical antibiotics may also be used to prevent infection, although the evidence for their effectiveness is limited 4, 5.
- Eye patching is not recommended as it may hinder healing 3, 5.
- Contact lens-related abrasions should be treated with antipseudomonal topical antibiotics 5.
- Follow-up appointments may be necessary to assess healing and potential complications, particularly if topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used 6.
Pain Relief and Healing
Pain relief can be achieved with topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or oral analgesics 3, 7, 6. Healing of corneal abrasions can be facilitated by:
- Removing foreign bodies and applying topical antibiotics if necessary 3, 5.
- Using disposable soft contact lenses and topical diclofenac for pain relief and healing 7.
- Avoiding eye patching, which may delay healing 3, 5.
Prevention of Infection
Prevention of infection is crucial in the treatment of corneal abrasions. This can be achieved by: