How I Manage Corneal Abrasions and Lacerations

In brief: The initial on-field examination of an athlete who has sustained an eye injury is crucial. Corneal abrasions usually heal rapidly with little lost playing time and rare complications, but a laceration can result in the loss of an eye if the injured athlete continues activity. Symptoms such as a cut in the eyelid or an object on the cornea may require immediate transfer of the injured athlete to a special facility for more thorough examination and treatment. The best treatment is prevention, which includes using protective eye wear that meets or exceeds safety standards.