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


CONCLUSIONS
Use of topical ketorolac may be a useful adjunct in the management of corneal abrasions.
Goyal
R
R
Department of Ophthalmology, St. Woolos Hospital, Newport, Wales.
Shankar
J
J
Fone
D L
DL
Hughes
D S
DS
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003315:Cornea / Q000187:drug effects; D065306:Corneal Injuries; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D004341:Drug Evaluation; D005129:Eye Foreign Bodies / Q000150:complications; D005131:Eye Injuries / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020911:Ketorolac Tromethamine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000187:drug effects
D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; D020911:Ketorolac Tromethamine