Randomised controlled trial of ketorolac in the management of corneal abrasions.

Abstract

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the role of topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) in the management of corneal abrasions with respect to symptoms and healing.

METHODS:

The 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.

RESULTS:

There 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.

CONCLUSION:

Use of topical ketorolac may be a useful adjunct in the management of corneal abrasions.

• Authors: R Goyal, J Shankar, D L Fone, D S Hughes
• Journal: Acta ophthalmologica Scandinavica (Acta Ophthalmol Scand) Vol. 79 Issue 2 Pg. 177-9 (Apr 2001) ISSN: 1395-3907 [Print] Denmark
• PMID: 11284758 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Evaluation Study, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)

Chemical References

• Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
• Ketorolac Tromethamine

Topics

• Administration, Topical
• Adult
• Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal (therapeutic use)
• Cornea (drug effects)
• Corneal Injuries
• Double-Blind Method
• Drug Evaluation
• Eye Foreign Bodies (complications)
• Eye Injuries (drug therapy, etiology)
• Female
• Humans
• Ketorolac Tromethamine (therapeutic use)
• Male
• Prospective Studies
• Treatment Outcome
• Wound Healing (drug effects)