Enhancing Eye Protection during General Anaesthesia: A Simple Technique

Abstract

Corneal abrasions are a common challenge encountered during general anaesthesia following non-ocular surgeries, carrying significant risks such as microbial keratitis and permanent scarring [1]. However, the safeguarding of the cornea lacks a standardised approach, leaving clinicians to rely on methods with varying degrees of efficacy and potential side effects. Notably, tape application alone has demonstrated comparable or superior protective benefits with fewer associated drawbacks. This is in contrast to the use of petroleum gel, which poses a risk of flammability, particularly concerning in surgeries involving electrocautery or open oxygen sources near the facial region. As an alternative, the preference leans towards using preservative-free eye ointments to mitigate the potential for corneal epithelial sloughing and conjunctival hyperaemia

Keywords

• cornea
• injury
• safety
• surgery