by A scratched cornea, or a corneal abrasion, is an eye injury that results in soreness, redness, and tearing. Depending on how severe your symptoms are, an ophthalmologist may suggest various treatments, including laser eye surgery. Here are five procedures used to treat a scratched cornea:
1. Foreign Body Removal
If a scratched cornea is caused by foreign objects like sand, dust, or metal shards, your care provider removes them to prevent more irritation. When not removed immediately, such substances may lead to additional scratching and possible infections. To get rid of the particles, a medical professional adds a sterile saline solution to the eye, which helps wash away the debris. If a foreign object is stuck in the eye, the doctor uses special instruments to remove the particle and reduce discomfort. After removing the irritating materials from your eye, an ophthalmologist advises you to wear a bandage contact lens to protect the cornea while it heals.
2. Eye Patching
If you have larger abrasions, protective eye patching may be a good option for preventing additional harm and irritation. By covering the eye, the patch minimizes exposure to air and light, which can be painful during this period. Soft patches made from breathable materials are useful for protecting the eye while allowing airflow to prevent moisture buildup on the skin. When you have the patch on, avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can contribute to further damage. Your doctor checks your eye throughout the healing process to determine if it’s healing properly. They will instruct you to remove the patch once your cornea is fully healed.
3. Eye Drops
A scratched cornea can cause the eye to become dry, and applying antibiotic eye drops helps the eye maintain moisture as it heals. These drops keep the eye lubricated and prevent scarring and infections, which can worsen the problem. The drops help alleviate the burning or stinging sensations that are common in patients with corneal abrasions. If you have serious eye dryness, your provider may prescribe a thicker antibiotic ointment that you apply at night. Based on the severity of the abrasion, your doctor may recommend using lubricating drops every few hours throughout the day.
4. Laser Surgery
For patients with deep or recurrent corneal abrasions, laser eye surgery can be a suitable form of treatment. Before the procedure begins, your surgeon may use corneal imaging to assess the extent of the damage. The surgeon numbs the eye with local anesthetic eye drops to reduce discomfort during treatment.
Eye surgeons use ultraviolet light from an excimer laser to remove microlayers of the damaged cornea. The laser reshapes the corneal surface, eliminating scars, irregularities, and rough patches to promote clear vision and reduce pain. Once healed, the cornea should remain stable, with a reduced risk of recurring issues and discomfort.
5. Corneal Transplant
When a scratched cornea causes severe scarring and thinning that interferes with vision, a healthcare provider may suggest a corneal transplant. This procedure involves replacing the damaged or scarred corneal tissue with healthy tissue from a donor. The main goals of this treatment are to strengthen the cornea, restore the eye’s clarity, and improve vision.
During the transplant, a qualified surgeon measures the cornea to determine an appropriate graft size. The surgeon then removes the injured section, replaces it, and sutures the donor tissue in place to promote healing. Depending on the severity of the injury, the doctor may replace only the damaged outer or inner layers of the cornea.
Book an Appointment for Laser Eye Surgery
If a scratched cornea is causing severe symptoms and discomfort, visit an ophthalmologist to determine the extent of the damage. They will recommend treatment options to reduce your pain and improve your eye’s natural healing process. Treatment options like laser surgery improve the structure and functionality of your eye to enhance your overall quality of life after recovery. Contact a laser eye surgeon today to learn more about their corneal procedures and schedule a consultation.
