Tetracaine for Corneal Abrasions in the Emergency Department

This randomized trial found tetracaine reduces the pain of corneal abrasions, but the trial was too small to assess safety.

The use of topical anesthetics such as tetracaine in patients with corneal abrasions is controversial, largely due to concerns about delayed healing. In this randomized, double-blind trial, 111 adults with corneal abrasions received tetracaine or placebo (artificial tears) to be taken every 30 minutes as needed for up to 24 hours. All patients also received antibiotic eye drops and opioids for breakthrough pain.

Pain scores at 24- to 48-hour emergency department (ED) follow-up (the primary outcome) were significantly lower in the tetracaine group (median scores, 1 vs. 8 out of 10). Patients in the tetracaine group also took fewer opioids (median, 1 vs. 7 tablets). Residual corneal abrasions were found in 18% of patients who received tetracai…

Reviewing Author

Lauren M. Westafer, DO, MPH, MS

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Editorial BoardsAnnals of Emergency Medicine

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAcademy for Academic Women in Emergency Medicine (Social Media Chair)

Lauren M. Westafer, DO, MPH, MS

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Editorial BoardsAnnals of Emergency Medicine

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAcademy for Academic Women in Emergency Medicine (Social Media Chair)

Tetracaine for Corneal Abrasions in the Emergency Department

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Reviewing Author