LAUSR

BACKGROUND Recent publications have suggested that  topical anaesthetic eye drops can be used safely and are effective in providing pain relief for the treatment of corneal abrasions. Complications resulting from the injudicious prescribing of topical anaesthetic eye drops are seen with some frequency in the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital's (RVEEH's) emergency department. OBJECTIVE The aim of this article is to review the literature and provide a clinical perspective to challenge the safety of topical anaesthetic eye drops for corneal abrasions. DISCUSSION The literature relevant to this clinical question is reviewed, with an emphasis on a critical evaluation of the publications in question. Cases from the RVEEH are used for illustrative purpose. An alternative option for analgesia is suggested.