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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
Corneal Epithelial Abrasion with Ocular Burr As a Model for Cornea Wound Healing
Published on: July 10, 2018
Detection and treatment of perioperative corneal abrasions
1Kearney Anesthesia Associates, PC, Kearney, NE, USA. moosd@charter.net
Insights
Perioperative corneal abrasion is a common eye injury during anesthesia and recovery. Vigilant care and early detection by perianesthesia nurses are crucial for preventing and managing this complication to reduce ocular morbidity.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Anesthesiology
- Perioperative Nursing
Background:
- Corneal abrasion represents the most frequent ocular injury during the perioperative period.
- This injury can occur across various anesthesia types, including general, monitored anesthesia care, and regional anesthesia, as well as during immediate postoperative recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the incidence, mechanisms of injury, prevention strategies, recognition methods, and treatment options for perioperative corneal abrasion.
Main Methods:
- This article explores existing literature and clinical observations regarding perioperative corneal abrasion.
- Focus is placed on the role of the perianesthesia nurse in detection and management.
Main Results:
- Corneal abrasions are often not evident until the patient reaches the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU).
- Perianesthesia nurses are frequently the first to identify this complication.
Conclusions:
- Implementing preventive measures and maintaining vigilant nursing care can significantly decrease the incidence of corneal abrasion in at-risk patients.
- Prompt identification and intervention are key to minimizing potential ocular morbidity.
Abstract:
Corneal abrasion is the most common ocular injury occurring in the perioperative period. Corneal abrasion may occur during general anesthesia, monitored anesthesia care, regional anesthesia, or in the immediate recovery period. This injury is not usually apparent until the patient is in the PACU, and the perianesthesia nurse may be the first clinician to detect this complication. Preventive measures and vigilant care can help reduce the incidence of corneal abrasion in susceptible patients. Early detection and prompt intervention may help reduce the incidence of ocular morbidity. The purpose of this article is to explore the incidence, mechanism of injury, prevention, recognition, and treatment of perioperative corneal abrasion.
