Comparing Vitamin A and Moist Chamber in Preventing Ocular Surface Disorders

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Critical Care Medicine
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Intensive care unit (ICU) patients are at high risk for ocular surface disorders (OSD) due to prolonged mechanical ventilation and reduced blinking.
• Maintaining ocular surface integrity is crucial for preventing complications in critically ill patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of vitamin A eye ointment (VAEO) versus moist chamber (MC) in preventing OSD in ICU patients.
• To evaluate the impact of these interventions on ocular surface hydration and health.

Main Methods:

• A randomized clinical trial involving 38 ICU patients.
• One eye received VAEO every 6 hours for 5 days; the other eye was covered with a polyethylene cover (PC) to create an MC, replaced every 12 hours.
• Schirmer's test was used to assess tear production.

Main Results:

• The VAEO group showed a significant increase in Schirmer's test results (2.06 mm, p < .001).
• The MC group exhibited a slight, non-significant reduction in Schirmer's test results (-0.15 mm, p = .669).
• VAEO proved more effective in preventing OSD than MC.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin A eye ointment is a recommended and effective method for preventing ocular surface disorders in ICU patients.
• VAEO offers superior protection for the ocular surface in critically ill patients compared to moist chambers.