Superficial Corneal injuries
Superficial Corneal Injuries
Superficial corneal injuries are one of the most common ocular conditions encountered in emergency departments all over the world. They range from scrapes or scratches on the outermost layer of the eye to more serious abrasions that can penetrate deeper into the cornea.
Early treatment of superficial corneal injuries is essential to minimize the risk of complications such as infection, scarring, and vision problems. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the injury, but may include antibiotics, specialized medication, bandage contact lenses, or even surgery.
Common symptoms of superficial corneal injuries include:
- Pain in the injured eye
- Sensitivity to light
- Redness of the eye
- Blurry vision
- Excessive tearing
In most cases, your doctor will use a Slit-Lamp microscope to diagnose and grade the injury. Depending on the severity of the injury, your doctor may decide to treat the injury conservatively with antibiotics, or may choose to use specialized medication in more serious cases.
If the injury is deep, or if it has failed to heal after a few days, your doctor may recommend a corneal abrasion repair procedure. This is a minor surgical procedure where the ophthalmologist will surgically remove any bands of scar tissue, repair any damaged nerve endings, and then apply a bandage contact lens to protect the eye.
It is important to note that superficial corneal injuries can cause serious long-term vision problems if not treated properly. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, as early diagnosis and treatment can help minimize the risk of complications.