Lets ask Dr Rob about topical local anaesthetic for simple corneal abrasions?

Is it safe to use topical local anaesthetic for the short term relief of the pain from a corneal abrasion?  Dr Rob Evison discusses the evidence.

 

The First10EM review by Dr Justin Morgenstern - https://first10em.com/ebm-lecture-handout-2-topical-anaesthetics-fo-corneal-abrasions/

Fraser R et al.  Topical Anaesthetic in the treatment of corneal epithelial defects:  What are the risks?  Aust J Gen Pract Vol 48 Issue 8 August 2019https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31370122/

Waldman N et al.  An Observational study to determine whether routinely sending patients home with a 24-hour supply of topical tetracaine from the emergency department for simple corneal abrasion pain is potentially safe.  Annals Emergency Medicine 2018 June;71(6):767-778 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28483289/

Shipman S et al.  Short term topical tetracaine is highly efficacious for the treatment of pain caused by corneal abrasions: double-blind, randomised clinical trial.  Annals of Emergency Medicine 2020 Oct 27 online https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33121832/

 

 

www.rnzcuc.org.nz

podcast@rnzcuc.org.nz

https://www.facebook.com/rnzcuc

https://twitter.com/rnzcuc

 

Music licensed from www.premiumbeat.com

Full Grip by Score Squad

 

This podcast is intended to assist in ongoing medical education and peer discussion for qualified health professionals.  Please ensure you work within your scope of practice at all times.  For personal medical advice always consult your usual doctor