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Updated: Jun 7, 2026

Ultrasound Cyclo Plasty in Eyes with Glaucoma
Published on: January 26, 2018
[Inadvertent instillation of superglue in both eyes should not be treated conservatively]
Carsten Øgard1, Hadi Kjaerbo, Torben Lykke Sørensen
1Øjenafdelingen, Roskilde Sygehus, Sygehus Nord, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark. ogard@dadlnet.dk
Insights
Accidental eye gluing in children requires immediate surgical separation of eyelids under general anesthesia, not watchful waiting. This approach minimizes psychological distress and prevents potential complications from adhesive eye injuries.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
- Ophthalmic Trauma
Background:
- Accidental ocular adhesion, particularly in children, presents a unique clinical challenge.
- Superglue (cyanoacrylate) eye injuries are infrequent but can cause significant distress and potential harm.
Observation:
- A 4-year-old boy presented with both eyelids sealed shut due to accidental cyanoacrylate exposure.
- Initial management involved cutting eyelashes and surgical separation of the eyelids under general anesthesia.
Findings:
- Expectant management is not recommended for bilateral eyelid adhesion in pediatric cases.
- Surgical intervention is crucial for both physical separation and psychological well-being.
Implications:
- Ophthalmic practitioners should consider surgical intervention for acute eyelid adhesion, prioritizing patient comfort and safety.
- Product design modifications, differentiating ophthalmic and cyanoacrylate packaging, could prevent future accidental exposures.
Abstract:
We describe a case of a 4-year-old boy who accidentally had both eyes glued together. The eyelashes were cut and the boy's eyelids were separated in general anaesthesia. When both eyes are glued together, we do not recommend expectancy, especially not in paediatric cases. For psychological reasons, the lids should be separated surgically. Furthermore, we suggest that similarities between ophthalmic bottles and superglue bottles are avoided so that future incidences may be avoided.
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