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Background/objectives: Cataract surgery, particularly phacoemulsification, has evolved significantly, benefiting millions worldwide. The choice of anesthesia technique impacts patient comfort and procedural efficacy. Subconjunctival anesthesia has emerged as an attractive alternative due to its potential to provide effective pain relief and surgeon comfort during surgery. A different aspect of this study is the inclusion of 1:100,000 adrenaline in 2% lignocaine for subconjunctival anesthesia, which has not been previously studied., Subjects/methods: A prospective, randomised, comparative study involving 196 eyes evaluated the safety and efficacy of subconjunctival anesthesia in phacoemulsification surgery. Pain scores during surgery and one hour post-surgery, surgeon discomfort, postoperative corneal clarity, complications, and additional anesthesia requirement were assessed. Statistical analysis employed descriptive statistics, t-tests, chi-squared tests, and correlations., Results: Subconjunctival anesthesia significantly lowered pain scores during surgery ( p  < 0.001) and one hour post-surgery ( p  < 0.001) compared to topical anesthesia. Surgeon discomfort was notably reduced with subconjunctival anesthesia ( p  < 0.001). Subconjunctival hemorrhage ( p  = 0.012) and redness ( p  = 0.024) were more prevalent postoperatively. No significant difference was observed in intraoperative complications ( p  = 0.573) or postoperative corneal clarity ( p  = 0.347)., Conclusion: Subconjunctival anesthesia, with the inclusion of 1:100,000 adrenaline in 2% lignocaine, provides effective pain relief and reduces surgeon discomfort during phacoemulsification surgery. The addition of adrenaline extends anesthesia duration. While immediate postoperative effects exist, subconjunctival anesthesia holds promise for enhanced patient comfort and procedural efficiency. Further research is needed to validate its long-term benefits and broader implications in evolving ophthalmic surgical practices., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Background: The injection of local anesthetics, an extremely painful procedure, leads to a reduction of patients' acceptance., Objective: To investigate the efficacy and adverse reactions of 4% tetracaine gel (TG) and lidocaine-prilocaine cream (LPC) on reducing the local anesthetic injection pain for upper eyelid blepharoplasty., Methods: Sixty participants were equally divided into three groups. Each patient in two treatment groups was assigned a pair of eutectic mixture of local anesthetics (EMLA) and 4% TG, and the blank control group did not receive any topical anesthetic. The primary outcome was the pain score associated with anesthetic injection. The secondary outcomes included the local cutaneous reactions and eyelid edema in 24 h postoperatively., Results: The NRS score in the control group was 6.65 ± 1.60, in the 4% TG and EMLA sides of 5.75 ± 1.62 and 6.25 ± 1.48 in group A, without statistically significant (p = 0.334, 0.067, respectively). While in group B, the injection pain scores in 4% TG and EMLA sides were 4.65 ± 1.66 and 5.5 ± 1.73 (p < 0.001 and p = 0.031, respectively). A negative correlation was observed between age and LAIP (regression coefficient = -0.022), whereas gender had almost no impact (regression coefficient = 0.368). The administration duration of 4%TG and EMLA had no statistically significant effect on the cutaneous reactions observed on the patients' eyelids (p = 0.723, p = 0.507, respectively). However, the incidence of cutaneous reactions was 35% for EMLA, significantly lower than 72.5% for 4% TG (p < 0.001). The postoperative edema score of the control group was 1.5 (1.0,2.0), while in group A both 4% TG and EMLA sides scored 2.0 (1.0,2.0) and in group B they scored 2.0 (1.0,2.0) and 1.0 (1.0,2.0), respectively. Neither group showed significant differences in postoperative edema score compared to the control group, and there's also no significant difference was revealed comparing the 4% TG or EMLA side with the paired side in one group or the same side in the other group., Conclusion: In comparison to LPC, 4% TG showed a stronger anesthetic effect on reducing injection pain after 60-minute application. It also generally presented a higher frequency of cutaneous reactions but didn't affect the eyelid edema 24 h postoperatively., Trial Registration: This study was registered at chictr.org (the first registration date is 03/04/2023, and the registration number is ChiCTR2300070153)., Competing Interests: Declarations. Ethics approval and consent to participate: The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki, and approved by the Review Committee of the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University (NO. LCKY2023-101). Written informed consents were obtained from all participants. Consent to publish: Not applicable. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Purpose: To evaluate the correlation between the timing of instilling anesthetic eyedrops prior to intravitreal injection and the patient's perception of pain associated with the injection., Methods: A prospective observational study which included 192 eyes of 192 patients. Time interval between instillation of Oxybuprocaine-0.4% and Tetracaine-0.5% eyedrops upon checking-in and injection was measured and pain level was evaluated by the 101-point-Numeric Rating Scale., Results: We found significant correlation between time interval from the first eyedrops to injection and injection related pain. The lowest pain score (11 ± 18) was found in the 11-15 min group, while the highest was found in the 0-6 min (26 ± 25) and in the > 35 min (31 ± 28) groups. The highest percentage of patients without pain was found in the 11-15 min (64%), followed by the 7-10 min (56%) and 16-20 min (47%) groups. 10% or 17% of the 0-6 min or > 35 min. groups, respectively, reported no pain. No patients in 11-15 min group reported severe pain versus 10% in the 0-6 min and 17% in the > 35 min groups. The highest percentage of patients with 'absent-to-mild' pain was in the 11-15 min (89%) and the 7-10 min (87%) compared to all other groups., Conclusions: Administration of first dose of anesthetic eyedrops within 11-15 min before intravitreal injection yields the lowest levels of injection-related pain, with 7-10 min being second best. Administration of eyedrops outside of this time-window results in higher pain levels avoidable with more attention to the timing issue., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

Purpose: To compare topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) efficacy on intravitreal injection-induced pain reduction and determine the most efficient topical NSAID., Methods: This randomized-controlled study included 662 eyes of 662 patients. Based on the types of NSAID administered before intravitreal injection, eight subgroups were formed. In the control group, a sterile saline solution was applied instead of NSAIDs. The visual analog scale was used to assess pain scores after intravitreal injection. The visual analog scale scores were noted immediately and 6 hours following injection (sixth hour)., Results: Nepafenac 0.3%, nepafenac 0.1%, and bromfenac 0.09% had the lowest scores, immediately after and after 6 hours, with no significant differences. Diclofenac and ketorolac had higher visual analog scale scores than the first trio but lower scores than the control group. Flurbiprofen, pranoprofen, and indomethacin did not significantly affect immediate pain; however, at the sixth hour, the visual analog scale scores were significantly reduced., Conclusion: Nepafenac 0.3%, nepafenac 0.1%, and bromfenac 0.09% were the most effective NSAIDs for pain reduction. Although some NSAIDs did not have a significant effect on immediate pain, they all provided significant benefits at the sixth hour.

Purpose: To evaluate whether cooled anaesthetic eyedrops and antiseptics alleviate pain and minimise subconjunctival haemorrhage following intravitreal injection., Methods: A prospective, double-masked, randomised controlled trial of 100 participants receiving either cooled (n = 50) or room temperature (n = 50) topical anaesthetic eyedrops and antiseptics before receiving an injection of bevacizumab. Baseline tolerability was estimated using a self-reported pain sensitivity questionnaire., Results: Overall tolerability was comparable between the study group and the control group (0.75 ± 0.13 vs. 0.74 ± 0.14, respectively, p = 0.99). Subconjunctival haemorrhage incidence was similar in both groups (80% vs. 86%, respectively, p = 0.113), as was subconjunctival haemorrhage size (2.75 ± 5.51 mm 2 vs. 5.53 ± 10.72 mm 2 , respectively, p = 0.11). Sub-group analysis demonstrated that the participants taking daily ocular eyedrops who received cooled anaesthetic eyedrops and antiseptics reported less pain at 10 min and less burning sensation at 24 h compared with matched controls (0.67 ± 1.50 vs. 2.50 ± 3.03, respectively, p = 0.040 and 0.00 ± 0.00 vs. 1.44 ± 2.96, respectively, p = 0.045). Participants who received cooled eyedrops and did not use antithrombotic therapy had smaller-sized subconjunctival haemorrhages compared with matched controls (1.55 ± 1.87 mm 2 vs. 8.29 ± 14.61 mm 2 , respectively, p = 0.038). Participants with hypertension who received cooled eyedrops had smaller-sized subconjunctival haemorrhage compared with matched controls (2.33 ± 4.99 mm 2 vs. 6.89 ± 12.41 mm 2 , respectively, p = 0.045)., Conclusion: The benefit of using cooled anaesthetic eyedrops and antiseptics to alleviate pain and minimise subconjunctival haemorrhage following intravitreal injection was not proven in the general population. It may be beneficial in part for some patients, such as those who regularly use eyedrops, patients with hypertension or those not on antithrombotic therapy., (© 2023 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to investigate the contribution of Nav1.8 expressing corneal afferent neurons to the presence of ongoing pain in lacrimal gland excision (LGE)-induced dry eye., Methods: The proton pump archaerhodopsin-3/eGFP (ArchT/eGFP) was conditionally expressed in corneal afferents using Nav1.8-cre mice. Dry eye was produced by unilateral LGE. Real time place preference was assessed using a three-chamber apparatus. A neutral, unlit center chamber was flanked by one illuminated with a control light and one illuminated with an ArchT activating light. For real-time preference, animals were placed in the neutral chamber and tracked over five 10-minute sessions, with the lights turned on during the second and fourth sessions. In other studies, movement was tracked over three 10-minute sessions (the lights turned on only during the second session), with animals tested once per day over the course of 4 days. A local anesthetic was used to examine the role of ongoing corneal afferent activity in producing place preference., Results: The corneal afferent nerves and trigeminal ganglion cell bodies showed a robust eGFP signal in Nav1.8-cre;ArchT/eGFP mice. After LGE, Nav1.8-cre;ArchT/eGFP mice demonstrated a preference for the ArchT activating light paired chamber. Preference was prevented with pre-application to the cornea of a local anesthetic. Nav1.8-cre;ArchT/eGFP mice with sham surgery and LGE wild-type control mice did not develop preference., Conclusions: Results indicate LGE-induced persistent, ongoing pain, driven by Nav1.8 expressing corneal afferents. Inhibition of these neurons represents a potential strategy for treating ongoing dry eye-induced pain.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to test the role of substance P (SP) and its receptor neurokinin 1 (NK1R) on ocular surface pain., Methods: Eight-week-old C57BL6/N (wild type [WT]) and B6.Cg-Tac1tm1Bbm/J (TAC1-KO) male mice were used. 5 M NaCl was topically applied on the cornea, followed by topical fosaprepitant 2, 10, and 50 mg/mL; 4 mg/mL oxybuprocaine chloride, or 0.1% diclofenac. Th eye wiping test was used to quantify ocular surface pain. SP content was quantified in the tear fluid and trigeminal ganglia (TG), and TAC1 mRNA was assessed in the cornea. Corneas were immunostained for β3-tubulin and NK1R, or CD45, to quantify leukocyte infiltration., Results: TAC1-KO mice displayed a significant reduction of ocular pain (P < 0.001). Similarly, a single dose of 10 or 50 mg/mL fosaprepitant applied topically to WT mice reduced ocular pain as compared to vehicle (P < 0.001). Fosaprepitant 2 mg/mL, instead, induced corneal analgesia only when it was administered for 10 days, 6 times/day (P < 0.05). Diclofenac or oxybuprocaine reduced corneal nociception when compared to vehicle or fosaprepitant (P < 0.05). Fosaprepitant or oxybuprocaine groups showed lower SP content in tear secretions and TG (P < 0.05), and reduction in TAC1 mRNA (P < 0.05), and leukocyte infiltration (P < 0.05) in the cornea. Colocalization of NK1R and β3-tubulin was detected in mouse corneas., Conclusions: Topical administration of the NK1R antagonist fosaprepitant effectively reduces ocular surface nociception by decreasing SP release in the tear fluid and TG, and corneal leukocyte infiltration. Fosaprepitant repurposing shows promise for the treatment of ocular pain.

Purpose: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a nepafenac punctal plug delivery system (N-PPDS) after cataract surgery., Setting: Three U.S. clinical sites., Design: Prospective, multicenter, randomized (2:1), parallel-arm, double-masked, placebo-controlled, phase II pilot study., Methods: Fifty-six subjects (aged older than 22 years) with expected postcataract correctable distance vision of 20/30 or better and lower puncta allowing dilation up to 1.0 mm received either the nepafenac (N-PPDS group; n = 38 eyes) or a placebo punctal plug delivery system (p-PPDS group; n = 18 eyes). All eyes underwent routine unilateral cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation. The primary and secondary efficacy measures were postoperative ocular pain and inflammation, respectively., Results: There were 38 patients in the experimental N-PPDS group and 18 patients in the control group. The N-PPDS group had a significantly higher percentage of pain-free patients than that in the p-PPDS group (22/32 [69%] vs 6/16 [38%] at 3 days, P = .038; and 24/36 [67%] vs 5/16 [31%] at 7 days, P = .018). A higher percentage of patients in the N-PPDS group (15/29 [52%] vs 0/14 [0%] in p-PPDS) was pain free at all visits (P = .001). Anterior chamber cell scores were better in the N-PPDS group (patients with no anterior chamber cells: 18/36 [50%] vs 3/16 [19%] in p-PPDS; P = .034) at 7 days. The plug retention rate was 98% (55/56) at 14 days. Adverse events having a suspected relationship with the punctal plug treatment occurred in 1 case of the N-PPDS group having to do with placement and zero in the p-PPDS group., Conclusions: The N-PPDS was safe and effective for the management of ocular pain and inflammation after cataract surgery., (Copyright © 2021 Published by Wolters Kluwer on behalf of ASCRS and ESCRS.)

Purpose: To define the factors that affect patient's self-assessed postoperative pain after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK)., Methods: Patients who underwent PRK in 2016 were evaluated. Anonymized data collected included patient gender, age, and season at the time of surgery, ablation depth, surgeon status (attending vs. resident), topical tetracaine use, and subjective pain scores at postoperative days (PODs) 1 and 7. Average pain scores and amount of pain medication taken were analyzed for each of the previously mentioned variables., Results: Overall, 231 patients who underwent PRK were analyzed. The mean pain score and SD were 0.78 ± 1.87 on POD 1 and 0.03 ± 0.37 by POD 7. Patients who used topical tetracaine reported significantly higher pain on POD 1 and 7 compared with patients who did not use tetracaine (P < 0.001 and P = 0.038, respectively). No significant differences in pain scores were seen based on surgeon status, ablation depth, gender, and season. Patients who used topical tetracaine took a higher amount of oral pain medication (9.44 ± 6.01) compared with those who did not (7.02 ± 4.71) (P = 0.022)., Conclusions: Postoperative pain was significantly elevated in patients who used tetracaine on POD 1 and POD 7. These patients were also more likely to take oral pain medication than those who did not use topical tetracaine. Surgeon status, season, gender, and ablation depth showed no significant differences in subjective pain scores. Oral pain medication should be evaluated to assess efficacy and safety in inhibiting ocular pain after PRK.

Purpose: To assess safety and efficacy of deep topical anesthesia with ropivacaine-soaked sponge compared with topical anesthesia with oxybuprocaine in patients undergoing phacoemulsification., Methods: This was a retrospective study where records of patients operated for cataract were evaluated. Patients using a visual analogue scale scored pain during surgery, and the surgeon on a questionnaire recorded ease of operation. Medical records were evaluated for patients who received topical anesthesia with multiple administrations of oxybuprocaine 0.4% or those who received deep topical anesthesia with a polyvinyl acetal sponge impregnated with ropivacaine 0.75% and positioned under the eyelid 30 min before surgery., Results: A total of one hundred patient records, equally divided in patients receiving deep topical anesthesia or topical anesthesia, were included. The visual analogue scale scores among the groups were statistically significant for a lower pain score in patients who received deep topical anesthesia with ropivacaine-soaked sponges (p = 0.0069). The average surgeon score was significantly higher for the deep topical anesthesia group indicating favorable ease of surgery (p = 0.0341). Six patients had major complications during surgery. No additional anesthesia was necessary to manage the complications in four patients in the deep anesthesia group, whereas propofol was used for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia in two patients in the topical anesthesia group., Conclusions: Deep topical anesthesia with ropivacaine-soaked sponges performed as well as topical oxybuprocaine regarding safety and efficacy. It provided a lower patient pain score, favorable surgeon satisfaction, and long-lasting anesthesia.

Purpose: To determine whether patient satisfaction with oral sedation is noninferior to intravenous sedation for cataract surgery., Design: Prospective, randomized, double-masked clinical trial., Participants: A volunteer sample of patients 18 years or older from diverse backgrounds scheduled for cataract surgery. Patients who were allergic to benzodiazepines, older than 70 years with a failed delirium screening questionnaire, pregnant or nursing, using a medication inhibiting cytochrome 450 3A, or intoxicated on the day of surgery were excluded., Methods: Patients were randomized to receive either oral triazolam with intravenous placebo or intravenous midazolam with oral placebo before surgery., Main Outcomes Measures: The primary outcome was patient satisfaction, measured by a survey administered on postoperative day 1. Secondary outcomes included surgeon and anesthesia provider satisfaction, need for supplemental anesthesia, and surgical complications., Results: Among the 85 patients (42 men [49.4%]; mean age, 65.8 years; standard deviation, 9.5 years) completing the study, the mean satisfaction score was 5.34±0.63 (range, 3.75-6) in the oral sedation group and 5.40±0.52 (range, 4-6) in the intravenous group. With an a priori noninferiority margin of 0.5 and a difference in mean scores between the 2 groups of 0.06 (1-tailed 95% confidence interval [CI], -infinity to 0.27), our results demonstrate noninferiority of oral sedation with a P value of 0.0004. Surgeon and anesthesia provider satisfaction was similar between the 2 groups. Intraoperative complications occurred in 16.7% in the oral group and 9.3% in the intravenous group (difference, 7.4%; 95% CI, -6.9% to 21.6%; P = 0.31). The only major intraoperative complication-a posterior capsular tear-occurred in the intravenous group. Eight patients in the oral group (19.0%) and 3 in the intravenous group (7.0%) received supplemental intravenous sedation (difference, 12.1%; 95% CI, -2.0% to 26.2%; P = 0.097)., Conclusions: The use of oral sedation in cataract surgery has been suggested as a cost- and space-saving measure, potentially allowing the transition of some patients from an operating to procedure room or office-based setting. We report the noninferiority of oral compared with intravenous sedation for cataract surgery in a diverse patient population in terms of patient satisfaction., (Copyright © 2019 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The use of a bandage contact lens (BCL) immediately after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) results in less pain. This review analyzed which BCL is most effective in decreasing pain immediately after PRK and evaluated the reepithelialization process in the treated zone. Two databases, PubMed and Medline, were checked for articles published from January 2005 to May 2018. The keywords were photorefractive keratectomy, PRK, contact lens, and bandage contact lens. The review comprised 13 studies; these studies enrolled 842 patients who had PRK. All studies compared the early postoperative results for two types of BCL material (senofilcon A and lotrafilcon A). Of the materials, the pain scores were lowest with a senofilcon A. The size of the defect in the epithelialized area 1 day after surgery decreased fastest with lotrafilcon A., (Copyright © 2019 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: To compare the postoperative pain and epithelial healing time in conventional and subepithelial accelerated corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) for progressive keratoconus., Methods: The medical records of 27 consecutive patients who underwent accelerated CXL for progressive keratoconus were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups: the conventional (n = 16) and the subepithelial accelerated CXL group (n = 11). Corneal epithelial layers with a diameter of 8.5 mm in central corneas were removed in the conventional group, while epithelial flaps with the same diameter were prepared in the subepithelial group before accelerated CXL procedures. Postoperative pain and epithelial healing time were evaluated within 1 week., Results: No complications developed in the subepithelial group, whereas peripheral corneal sterile infiltrate was observed in three eyes in the conventional group, which disappeared after treated with steroids for a week. The pain of patients in subepithelial group was significantly slighter than those in conventional group, with a significant difference in pain scoring 0, 1, 2 and 3 days postoperatively (P = 0.002, P = 0.001, P = 0.001, P = 0.001, respectively). Different from the fact that patients in subepithelial group had epithelium after operation, the healing time for epithelium in conventional group was 3-6 days, with an average of 4.64 ± 0.59 days., Conclusions: Subepithelial accelerated CXL significantly improved postoperative pain as well as reduced the epithelial healing time for the treatment of keratoconus.

Purpose: Ocular pain and discomfort are the most defining symptoms of dry eye disease. We determined the ability of topical progesterone to affect corneal sensitivity and brainstem processing of nociceptive inputs., Methods: Progesterone or vehicle gel was applied to the shaved forehead in male Sprague Dawley rats. As a site control, gel also was applied to the cheek on the side contralateral to corneal stimulation. Corneal mechanical thresholds were determined using the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer in intact and lacrimal gland excision-induced dry eye animals. Eye wipe behaviors in response to hypertonic saline and capsaicin were examined, and corneal mustard oil-induced c-Fos immunohistochemistry was quantified in the brainstem spinal trigeminal nucleus., Results: Progesterone gel application to the forehead, but not the contralateral cheek, increased corneal mechanical thresholds in intact and lacrimal gland excision animals beginning <30 minutes after treatment. Subcutaneous injection of the local anesthetic bupivacaine into the forehead region before application of progesterone prevented the increase in corneal mechanical thresholds. Furthermore, progesterone decreased capsaicin-evoked eye wipe behavior in intact animals and hypertonic saline evoked eye wipe behavior in dry eye animals. The number of Fos-positive neurons located in the caudal region of the spinal trigeminal nucleus after corneal mustard oil application was reduced in progesterone-treated animals., Conclusions: Results from this study indicate that progesterone, when applied to the forehead, produces analgesia as indicated by increased corneal mechanical thresholds and decreased nociceptive responses to hypertonic saline and capsaicin.

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of moist chamber spectacle wear on the ocular surface and tear functions in a controlled wind exposure environment., Methods: Twenty-eight eyes of 14 probable dry eye subjects (4 men, 10 women; mean age: 34.5 years) underwent constant wind exposure for 10 min without spectacle, with conventional spectacle wear, and with moist chamber spectacle wear. Dryness Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, tear evaporation, blink rate, tear film breakup testing, and fluorescein staining were performed before and after wind exposure., Results: The mean dryness VAS score after wind exposure was significantly higher when no spectacles were worn or when conventional spectacles with no moist chambers were worn compared with after exposure scores when moist chamber spectacles were worn (P=0.02). The mean of tear evaporation rate from the ocular surface and blink rate increased significantly with wind exposure when no spectacles were worn or when conventional spectacles with no moist chambers were worn (P=0.04). There were no significant changes before and after wind exposure when the moist chamber spectacles were worn (P=0.1)., Conclusion: Moist chamber spectacles appear to have favorable effects on dry eye symptomatology, tear stability, and blink rates in adverse environment conditions such as wind exposure.

Objectives: This article will examine the current literature, as it relates to contact lens discomfort (CLD) secondary to contact lens solutions. The reader will better understand the characteristics of contact lenses, as they uniquely interact with each type of contact lens solution and also gain a better comprehension of the components of contact lens solution such as preservatives, surfactants, and chelating agents, which may contribute to discomfort. By investigating corneal staining theory and the mechanisms that contribute to its presence, the reader will gain insight into this clinical finding, which relates to selection of contact lens solutions. The FDA standards for testing solutions and how this relates to contact lens keratitis will also be appraised in regards to current ISO recommendations. Finally, better selection of multipurpose contact lens solution (MPS) and hydrogen peroxide-based solutions for patients should be accessible to the clinician based on this review and preexisting clinical findings or diagnoses., Methods: A review of current published literature from peer reviewed journals and online journals was conducted to gain an understanding of contact lens solution's impact on contact lens discomfort., Conclusions: Many studies have been conducted comparing comfort between various types of contact lens solutions. It is challenging to decipher this information and apply it clinically when selecting solutions for patients. By comparing solution components, how contact lens solutions interact with different types of lenses, keratitis related to contact lenses, and preexisting ocular conditions, this review will improve a clinician's ability to eliminate CLD.

Purpose: To compare comfort and inflammation in patients treated with postoperative topical antibiotic steroids in one eye versus no treatment in the other eye., Methods: This prospective, randomized single-masked study included all patients with planned symmetrical strabismus surgery via fornix incision. One eye was randomly assigned to topical postoperative tobramycin-dexamethasone and the other eye was not treated. Patient and parent questionnaires were administered, and two masked observers assessed conjunctival injection over the muscle and wound site., Results: A total of 70 patients completed at least 1 postoperative visit and were included. There was no statistically significant difference between the treatment eye and the no treatment eye in any of the studied parameters., Conclusions: Postoperative topical antibiotic steroid did not prove to be superior to no treatment in uncomplicated fornix surgery with regard to patient comfort and inflammation. In those cases, consideration may be given to sparing the patient the inconvenience, cost, and potential complications of the topical medication., (Copyright © 2018 American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: To evaluate the advantage of peribulbar anesthesia in two quadrants (infero-temporal and upper nasal) vs single injection technique (infero-temporal) for scleral rhegmatogenous retinal detachment surgery (RRD)., Patients and Methods: 57 patients, aged between 33 and 75 years (57.01 ± 8.68), waiting for retinal detachment surgery, were randomized in two groups: a group S (29 patients), with single quadrant injection technique and a group C (28 patients) with two quadrants injection. Patients in Group S were injected in two quadrants with a 10 ml mixture containing Mepivacaine 2% 5 ml and Ropivacaine 0.75% 5 ml, with hyaluronidase 10 IU/ ml. Patients in group C were injected with the same anesthetic mixture in one quadrant. Number of additional injection, during surgery, in two groups, were reported. Pain was tested with VAS (Verbal Analogue Scale 0-10) after regional block, when muscles were insulated, during scleral buckling positioning, when conjunctive was closed and 6, 12, 24 hours after surgery., Results: The need for a second peribulbar injection of anesthetic occurred in 9 patients of group C (32.14%); further injection was necessary in 1 patient (3.57%) of group S during scleral buckling (VAS = 7), statistically significant (p <0.05). Postoperative VAS 6 - 12 - 24 hours after surgery was not significant., Conclusions: The peribulbar anesthesia may be proposed in scleral surgery of retinal detachment; the injection in two quadrants secured solid and satisfactory anesthesia, increasing the outcome of retinal surgery in loco-regional anesthesia.

Purpose: To compare the protective properties and ease of manipulation during cataract surgery of corneal coating with a gel (eyeDRO; AL.CHI.MI.A. S.R.L, Italy) and corneal irrigation with balanced salt solution (BSS)., Methods: We analyzed the data of 51 patients receiving either eyeDRO or BSS during routine cataract surgery performed within a 20-day period in 2016. The selected parameters were intraoperative clarity and ease of manipulation; postoperative epithelial integrity; and patient discomfort., Results: Compared with BSS irrigation, eyeDRO coating significantly increased intraoperative clarity and ease of manipulation (P < 0.01). Single application was required in eyeDRO-treated eyes, whereas BSS was applied 5.3 ± 0.4 times on average (P < 0.01). Two hours postoperatively, a normal epithelium was observed in 90.0% and 60.0% of eyeDRO-coated and BSS-irrigated eyes, respectively; punctate epithelial damage was observed in 9.7% and 40.0% (P < 0.05) of eyeDRO-coated and BSS-irrigated eyes, respectively; eye irritation and foreign body sensation were experienced by 13.0% and 37.0% of eyeDRO-treated patients and by 65.0% and 100% of BSS-treated patients, respectively (P < 0.01). Twenty-four hours postoperatively, 80.0% of BSS-treated patients versus 19.0% of eyeDRO-treated patients still experienced foreign body sensation (P < 0.01)., Conclusions: EyeDRO coating was shown to be a safer and more effective option than BSS irrigation in cataract surgery because single application provided optimal hydration and intraoperative clarity during the entire surgery, better preserved the corneal epithelium, and offered postoperative comfort to the patient.

Postoperative periorbital edema and ecchymosis are most bothersome to rhinoplasty patients. The degree of swelling and bruising is influenced by several factors, and numerous prophylactic and therapeutic measures have been described in the literature. This article reviews the current literature and concludes with the author's suggestions on how to best minimize postoperative periorbital edema and ecchymosis., Competing Interests: None., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.)

Technologic improvements in cataract surgery have not only improved visual outcomes, but also have minimized intraoperative and postoperative pain. We review the mechanisms, risk factors, and management of intraoperative and postoperative pain. Summaries of less common sources of physiologic pain have been included to reinforce recognition of when pain represents an expected physiologic reaction to surgery as opposed to signaling a more serious complication. We also discuss various current and emerging anesthetic and analgesic modalities., (Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Context: (-)-α-Bisabolol (BISA) is a sesquiterpene alcohol widely used as scent in cosmetic preparations, perfumes, shampoos, toilet soaps and other toiletries with potential for use in the pharmaceutical area., Objective: To evaluate the corneal antinociceptive efficacy of BISA and to analyze the best solubilizing agent., Materials and Methods: Acute corneal nociception was induced by the local application of hypertonic saline (5 M NaCl; 20 μL) to the corneal surface of Swiss mice (n = 8/group) 60 min after topical treatment with solutions or ointment containing BISA (50-200 mg/mL). The number of eye wipes performed with the ipsilateral forepaw was counted for a period of 30 s. Control groups (vehicles) were included., Results: BISA (50, 100 or 200 mg/mL) solubilized with Tween 80 did not reduce the number of eye wipes. Animals treated with the ointment (BISA 50, 100 or 200 mg/mL; p < 0.001), as well the solution containing propylene glycol (BISA 100 mg/mL; p < 0.05), showed significant reduction in the number of nociceptive behaviours. Solutions containing propylene glycol and isopropyl myristate had no effects., Discussion and Conclusion: BISA possess corneal antinociceptive activity. Although the ointment presented antinociceptive effect, it is concluded that BISA when associated with propylene glycol has better potential for corneal nociceptive pain since it is more comfortable to use, leading to greater acceptance by patients.

Purpose: Blue-blocking (BB) spectacle lenses, which attenuate short-wavelength light, are being marketed to alleviate eyestrain and discomfort when using digital devices, improve sleep quality and potentially confer protection from retinal phototoxicity. The aim of this review was to investigate the relative benefits and potential harms of these lenses., Methods: We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), recruiting adults from the general population, which investigated the effect of BB spectacle lenses on visual performance, symptoms of eyestrain or eye fatigue, changes to macular integrity and subjective sleep quality. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and clinical trial registers, until 30 April 2017. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool., Results: Three studies (with 136 participants) met our inclusion criteria; these had limitations in study design and/or implementation. One study compared the effect of BB lenses with clear lenses on contrast sensitivity (CS) and colour vision (CV) using a pseudo-RCT crossover design; there was no observed difference between lens types (log CS; Mean Difference (MD) = -0.01 [-0.03, 0.01], CV total error score on 100-hue; MD = 1.30 [-7.84, 10.44]). Another study measured critical fusion frequency (CFF), as a proxy for eye fatigue, on wearers of low and high BB lenses, pre- and post- a two-hour computer task. There was no observed difference between low BB and standard lens groups, but there was a less negative change in CFF between the high and low BB groups (MD = 1.81 [0.57, 3.05]). Both studies compared eyestrain symptoms with Likert scales. There was no evidence of inter-group differences for either low BB (MD = 0.00 [-0.22, 0.22]) or high BB lenses (MD = -0.05 [-0.31, 0.21]), nor evidence of a difference in the proportion of participants showing an improvement in symptoms of eyestrain or eye fatigue. One study reported a small improvement in sleep quality in people with self-reported insomnia after wearing high compared to low-BB lenses (MD = 0.80 [0.17, 1.43]) using a 10-point Likert scale. A study involving normal participants found no observed difference in sleep quality. We found no studies investigating effects on macular structure or function., Conclusions: We find a lack of high quality evidence to support using BB spectacle lenses for the general population to improve visual performance or sleep quality, alleviate eye fatigue or conserve macular health., (© 2017 The Authors Ophthalmic & Physiological Optics © 2017 The College of Optometrists.)

Purpose: To evaluate the analgesic effect of bromfenac, a topically administered nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agent, in patients undergoing intravitreal injections (IVIs) of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents., Methods: A single center, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross over interventional study. Patients scheduled to undergo IVI of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor were randomized to receive topical bromfenac or placebo before IVI. Pain perception was assessed using the short form of the McGill Pain Questionnaire. Pain intensity was evaluated with the visual analog scale, the main component of the short form of the McGill Pain Questionnaire, and the Present Pain Intensity scores immediately and 6 hours postinjection., Results: Sixty-five patients (65 eyes) were enrolled in the study. Immediately after IVI, pain perception was statistically significant lower in patients treated with bromfenac compared with placebo as assessed by the visual analog scale pain score and the main component of the short form of the McGill Pain Questionnaire (P = 0.002 and 0.001, respectively). At 6 hours postIVI, pain was statistically significant lower in patients treated with bromfenac, according to the visual analog scale pain score, the main component of the short form of the McGill Pain Questionnaire, and the Present Pain Intensity score (P < 0.001, <0.001, and P = 0.001, respectively). Multivariable regression analysis revealed that pain perception, as evaluated with the visual analog scale pain score immediately after IVI, was significantly lower in patients of older age, female patients and those with higher number of previous injections. Immediately after IVI, bromfenac seemed to be more effective in younger patients and in those who had already undergone an amount of injections., Conclusion: Topical instillation of bromfenac significantly reduced the IVI-related pain immediately after and 6 hours postinjection.

Background: To assess the efficacy of bandage contact lens (BCL) application to promote epithelialization and alleviate pain following corneal transplantation., Methods: Twenty-six consecutive patients who underwent corneal transplantation were randomly assigned to undergo BCL application (BCL group, n = 14) or no BCL application (control group, n = 12) at the end of the surgery. Corneal epithelialization was analyzed by photography using fluorescein staining, and ocular pain was measured using a visual analog scale., Results: The mean size of the epithelial defect relative to the graft area in the BCL group was 21.80 ± 35.10 % at the end of surgery, 18.20 ± 31.10 % on postoperative day 1, and 5.45 ± 11.10 % on postoperative days 3 to 5. These values in the control group were 9.64 ± 17.60 % at the end of surgery, 11.50 ± 25.70 % on postoperative day 1, and 0.00 ± 0.00 % on postoperative days 3 to 5. There were no significant differences in the speed of epithelialization between the two groups. The mean preoperative pain score in the BCL group was slightly higher than that control (4.27 ± 1.96 vs. 2.41 ± 2.18, respectively; P = 0.039). The scores significantly increased on postoperative day 1 and promptly returned to preoperative levels by day 7 in both groups, and there were no significant differences between the groups., Conclusions: No significant benefits of BCL application at the time of corneal transplantation were observed in this study. The efficacy and safety of BCLs in eyes with compromised epithelialization require further study., Trial Registration Number: UMIN 000019091 . Date of registration: 2015/09/22.

A 52-year-old patient presented with a painless nodular tumor of the upper left eyelid, which was first noticed 6 months prior to the initial presentation. The histopathological and immunohistochemical examination of the excised tumor revealed a mucinous sweat gland carcinoma. This very rare neoplasm (1/150,000 skin lesions) is located within the ocular adnexa in 40 % of cases. If completely excised the prognosis is usually good; however, due to the histological similarity to metastases of an adenocarcinoma, a hitherto unknown primary tumor at another site should be excluded.

Purpose: To determine whether variations in multipurpose disinfecting solution (MPDS) storage osmolarity from inappropriate contact lens (CL) case cleaning affect ocular surface integrity and wearer comfort., Methods: There were twenty contact lens cases (study CLCs) in the study group. Ten were filled with ReNu Multiplus(®) and 10 with SoloCare Aqua™ (MPDS-1 and -2, respectively) and kept closed for 8h; the cases were then emptied and kept open for air-drying for 16h. This procedure was carried out every day for two months. Storage solution osmolarity was measured on days 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60. Ten subjects were then fitted with both month-old lenses stored in the study CLCs and with new lenses stored in new cases with fresh solution for 24h (control CLCs). Symptoms, tear osmolarity and percentage of subjects whose conjunctival hyperaemia and ocular surface staining scores changed were determined after 1h of wear., Results: Study CLC osmolarity increased in both solutions after two months (p<0.05). For MPDS-1 there were differences in stinging between study CLCs and control CLCs after 10min of CL wear (p=0.04), and in comfort after 10 (p=0.035) and 60min wear (p=0.042). Significant (p<0.05) differences between study CLC and control CLC groups were also found for MPDS-2 in limbal hyperaemia (study: 50% change; control: 0% change) and bulbar and corneal staining (study: 80% change; control: 20% change)., Conclusion: The stored-MPDS osmolarity increase caused by air-drying the CLCs could affect the ocular surface. This increase might reduce lens wear comfort., (Copyright © 2016 British Contact Lens Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: This study aimed to compare two daily disposable lenses to reduce lens-induced discomfort (CLD) among different populations of symptomatic wearers., Methods: This was a multicenter, crossover, study. Subjects were contact lens wearers reporting CLD. Subjects (76) were randomly assigned to wear Nelfilcon A (NF) then Delefilcon A (DF)- group A- or vice-versa (group B). Tear break-up time (TBUT), corneal (CS) and conjunctival staining (CJS) were graded at every visit. Subjects'symptoms were evaluated with Contact Lens Dry Eye Questionnaire (CLDEQ-8) and a research questionnaire (Université de Montréal)., Results: Compared to baseline (BL), TBUT did not vary (BL) 6.7+2.1s vs. 6.7+1.8s (NF) vs. 6.4+1.9 (DF) (F=1.69; p=0.201) NF wearers were more at risk of developing moderate CJS (odds ratio 14.324; 95% CI 3.103-66.126) and more likely to show increased CS (odds ratio 8.754; 95% CI 2.181-35.146). Comfortable hours of wear reported at BL (7.6+2.3h) did not improve significantly with NF lenses (8.5+ 2.6h; F=1.095; p=0.394) but increased by 22% with DF lenses (10.7+3.0h; F=2.434; p=0.031). The total CLDEQ-8 score was improved with DF lenses (BL 17.2 vs. NF 16.1, p=0.397; vs. DF 8.3, p<0.001), especially on more symptomatic subjects. In the end, 92% of patients preferred to switch over DD lenses, 78% selecting DF material for the future., Conclusion: Outcome from switching CLD wearers to DD lenses is material related. It seems that initial severity of the symptoms could be also a factor to consider., (Copyright © 2015 British Contact Lens Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Success and satisfactory results in rhinoplasty are established not only with flawless surgery but also with meticulous perioperative care. Pain stays at the centre of these circumstances. Besides, several contributing perioperative factors such as periorbital edema and ecchymosis play key role on the patients' comfort., Methods: Septorhinoplasty was carried out in 50 patients between February and May 2014 under general anesthesia. Local anesthesia with lidocaine and adrenaline combination was done prior to incision. Following the procedure, silicone gel packs were applied. One periorbital region was cooled after surgery whereas the opposite site was left uncooled. Periorbital edema-ecchmosis and pain intensity were graded and noted 1 hour, 1 day, 3 days, 1 week and 1 month after surgery., Results: Cold application seriously reduced postoperative edema and ecchymosis at the first week (p=0.001 for the first 3 days and p=0.006 at first week). Pain was reduced with cooling not on the first hour (p&gt;0.05), but on the forthcoming days throughout the first week (p<0.005). Operation time revealed that primary cases were carried out quicker than revisional surgery. Moreover, pain scores were found lower in primary cases than revisions, especially in the first 3 days. These finding were approved statistically., Conclusion: Cooling of the periorbital region reduces edema and ecchymosis as well as pain; however 3 days of use is enough after rhinoplasty. One hour after surgery, cooling does not affect the pain but reduce edema and ecchymosis.

Purpose: To compare the pain responses of patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) undergoing panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) using either pattern scan laser (PASCAL) or navigated laser photocoagulation (NAVILAS)., Methods: Patients diagnosed with PDR were randomly assigned to undergo either PASCAL or NAVILAS photocoagulation treatment. PRP was performed using the multi-shot mode with a spot size of 200-400 µm and a pulse duration of 30 ms to obtain a white-grayish spot on the retina. Parameters were identical in both procedures. After 30 min of PRP application, patients were asked to verbally describe their pain perception as either "none," "mild," "moderate," "severe," or "very severe" using a verbal rating scale (VRS) and visual analog scale (VAS) by indicating a score from "0" to "10," representing the severity of pain from "no pain" to "severe pain.", Results: A total of 60 eyes of 60 patients (20 females and 40 males) diagnosed with PDR were treated. The mean age of patients was 62.22 ± 9.19 years, and the mean diabetes duration was 195.47 ± 94.54 months. The mean number of laser spots delivered during PRP was 389.47 ± 71.52 in the NAVILAS group and 392.70 ± 54.33 in the PASCAL group (p=0.57). The difference in pain responses between patients in the NAVILAS and PASCAL groups was significant with regard to the mean VRS (1.10 ± 0.67 and 1.47 ± 0.69, respectively; p=0.042) and mean VAS (2.13 ± 1.17 and 2.97 ± 1.35, respectively; p=0.034) scores., Conclusions: Pain responses in patients undergoing PRP with a 30-ms pulse duration were significantly milder in the NAVILAS group than in the PASCAL group.

Background: Idiopathic ophthalmodynia and idiopathic rhinalgia were described a few years ago. These conditions seem specific pain syndromes with a distinctive location in the eye or in the nose. We aimed to present a new prospective series in order to verify the consistency of these syndromes., Methods: We performed a descriptive study of all patients referred to our regional neurologic clinics from 2010 to 2014 because of facial pain exclusively felt in the eye or in the nose fulfilling the proposed diagnostic criteria for idiopathic ophthalmodynia and idiopathic rhinalgia., Results: There were 9 patients with idiopathic ophthalmodynia and 7 patients with idiopathic rhinalgia, with a clear female preponderance, and a mean age at onset in the fifth decade. The pain was usually moderate and the temporal pattern was generally chronic. Only one patient reported accompaniments (hypersensitivity to the light and to the flow of air in the symptomatic eye). Preventive treatment with amitriptyline, pregabalin, or gabapentin was partially or totally effective., Conclusions: The clinical features of this new series parallels those of the original description, thus indicating that both idiopathic ophthalmodynia and idiopathic rhinalgia have clear-cut clinical pictures with excellent consistency both inter- and intra-individually., (© 2015 American Headache Society.)

Purpose: Determine whether transconjunctival local anesthesia using 2% lidocaine gel decreases pain perception in comparison with transcutaneous anesthesia in patients undergoing outpatient eyelid surgery., Methods: This is a randomized controlled clinical trial. This study approved by an institutional review board and adhered to the Declaration of Helsinki and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. A total of 120 patients undergoing bilateral upper or lower eyelid surgery were enlisted. Topical 2% lidocaine gel was administered to the palpebral conjunctiva for 1 minute, followed by a local transconjunctival injection. Local anesthetic was administered to the contralateral eyelid by a transcutaneous approach without use of topical anesthetic. Both injections were 1 ml of 1% lidocaine with epinephrine 1:100,000 on a 30-gauge needle. After each injection, patients rated the pain on a 0-to-10 visual analog scale. Patients were also asked for preference between the 2 sides., Results: The mean pain scores were 2.33 (standard deviation 0.98) for the transconjunctival side and 3.42 (standard deviation 0.88) for the transcutaneous side. The reduction in pain scores for lidocaine gel-treated sides was statistically significant (p < 0.001) when controlling for side of intervention, upper versus lower eyelid procedures, sex of participants, and type of procedure. In addition, 85% of participants found the transconjunctival injection to be less painful than the transcutaneous (p < 0.001)., Conclusions: Transconjunctival local anesthesia in conjunction with topical anesthesia with 2% lidocaine gel provides a clinically and statistically significant decrease in perceived pain when compared with transcutaneous anesthesia in patients undergoing outpatient eyelid surgery.

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of phenylephrine 1.0%-ketorolac 0.3% (Omidria) for maintenance of mydriasis during, and reduction of ocular pain after, cataract surgery., Setting: Twenty centers in the United States and the Netherlands., Design: Prospective randomized clinical trials., Methods: Patients having cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange were enrolled in 2 clinical trials. Phenylephrine 1.0%-ketorolac 0.3% or placebo was added to irrigation solution and administered intracamerally during the procedure. Integrated analyses of primary and secondary endpoints were conducted., Results: The clinical trials comprised 808 patients (403 treatment and 405 placebo). Phenylephrine 1.0%-ketorolac 0.3% was superior to placebo for the maintenance of mydriasis during, and reduction of ocular pain following, cataract surgery. The mean area under the curve (AUC) change from baseline in pupil diameter was 0.08 mm for treatment compared with -0.50 mm for placebo (P < .0001). The mean AUC of ocular pain visual analog scale scores within 12 hours postoperatively was 4.16 mm for the treatment group and 9.06 mm for the placebo group (P < .001). Results of all secondary efficacy analyses demonstrated a significant treatment effect associated with phenylephrine 1.0%-ketorolac 0.3%. Treatment-emergent adverse events were as expected for a population having cataract surgery; no clinically significant differences in safety measures were observed between treatment groups., Conclusion: In this integrated analysis, phenylephrine 1.0%-ketorolac 0.3% administered intracamerally with irrigation solution during cataract surgery was safe and effective for maintaining mydriasis during the procedure and reducing postoperative ocular pain., Financial Disclosure: Dr. Schaaf is an employee and holds an equity interest in Omeros Corporation. Drs. Hovanesian, Sheppard, Trattler, Gayton, and Ng are consultants to Omeros Corporation. No other author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned., (Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is an effective and safe procedure to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in the management of open-angle glaucoma. The post-laser inflammatory reaction could be positively implicated in SLT efficacy and the relevance of postoperative use of topical anti-inflammatory remains controversial. The goal of this study is to determine the effect of various anti-inflammatory treatments on intraocular pressure and on side effects following SLT., Material and Methods: A prospective, randomized, double-blind study with a control group was conducted. Ninety-six eyes of 67 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma who underwent SLT were enrolled in this study between March 2009 and March 2012. Eyes recruited in the study were randomized to receive either prednisolone acetate 1%, diclofenac 0.1% or a placebo. The 3 treatments were administered 4 times a day for 5 days following SLT. The intraocular pressures were measured at regular intervals during the 6-months follow-up period. Side effects were also evaluated with a questionnaire as well as with the ocular exam., Results: The analysis of the relative IOP decrease over the 6-months period revealed a significant difference between the time points of follow-up (P<0.0001), but no group effect (P=0.2980). No significant difference regarding anterior chamber inflammation and discomfort was observed between the 3 groups., Conclusion: There was no difference in intraocular pressure reduction, intraocular inflammation or ocular discomfort post-SLT when comparing the 3 treatment modalities., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: To review clinical presentation, investigation results and treatment outcomes of patients with Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) at a tertiary eye care center in Hong Kong., Methods: A retrospective case review was performed for cases of Acanthamoeba keratitis diagnosed at the Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong over a 10-year period., Results: Fifteen eyes of 13 patients were treated for AK over the study period. 12 out of 13 patients (92.3%) were contact lens wearers. All patients presented with blurred vision and pain, while 9 patients (69.2%) presented with redness of the affected eye. The most common ocular sign was diffuse corneal haze or ground glass appearance of the cornea (69.2%) followed by anterior chamber inflammation (53.8%), ring infiltrate (38.4%), epithelial defect (38.4%), perineural infiltrates (30.7%) and satellite lesions (15.3%). Acanthamoeba was detected on corneal scrapings in 4 eyes and on confocal microscopy in 4 eyes. The mean duration of treatment was 140 ± 50.8 days. Surgical intervention was required in two cases due to uncontrolled eye infection and progressive corneal thinning. All patients had improvement in visual acuity after treatment., Conclusions: Patients with AK exhibited a wide spectrum of clinical characteristics. Improper care and usage of contact lenses is a major risk factor for Acanthamoeba keratitis. Diagnosis of AK remained a challenge. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment with amoebicidal drugs can improve the outcomes of Acanthamoeba keratitis., (Copyright © 2014 British Contact Lens Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: To examine the effect of a 1-time dose of pregabalin (Lyrica) on the perception of pain and analgesic consumption after oculofacial plastic surgery., Methods: In this prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, patients presenting to the oculofacial plastic surgery service at University of Colorado Eye Center for functional eyelid surgery and who met the study criteria were consecutively enrolled between October 2011 and September 2012. Subjects were randomized to either placebo or 150 mg pregabalin administered 15 minutes to an hour prior to the procedure. The procedure was then performed under the usual standard of care. Postoperatively, study subjects recorded pain scores on visual analog scales (range 0-100) at 1 to 2 hours, 2 to 4 hours, 8 to 12 hours, 20 to 28 hours, and 36 to 48 hours and the amount of acetaminophen consumed. Data were analyzed with Statistical Analysis System software using mixed-effects linear models., Results: Fifty-two patients were enrolled. Three patients were excluded due to incomplete follow up (n = 2) and postoperative course requiring early unblinding (n = 1). Twenty-six subjects were men. Average age was 68 years (range, 25-89). Eyelid procedures performed included blepharoplasty (18), canthoplasty (11), ptosis repair (15), eyelid retraction repair (2), pentagonal wedge resection (1), and MOHS reconstruction (2). Twenty-six patients were randomized to receive pregabalin, while the remainder received placebo. There was no significant difference in demographics between the 2 groups. The pregabalin group reported pain scores that were 5.5 points lower on average compared with the placebo group (p = 0.0307). Patients in the pregabalin group also consumed half as much acetaminophen (1.3 g) on average as the placebo group (2.6 g) during the postoperative period., Conclusions: Pregabalin is effective in reducing postoperative pain after oculoplastic procedures when compared with placebo. It may be a useful adjunct for pain control in selected patients.

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the effect of blocking short-wavelength light on critical flicker frequency (CFF)., Design: This study is a prospective clinical study., Methods: Thirty-three participants (17 men and 16 women; age range, 28-39 years) were divided into 3 groups. Each group wore 1 of 3 types of lenses while performing an intensive computer task for 2 hours. To evaluate the effect of blocking short-wavelength light before and after the task, we measured the CFF and evaluated subjective questionnaires. We used the analysis of variance test to examine whether the type of lenses tested affected any of the visual fatigue-related parameters., Results: The type of lens worn significantly affected the CFF; however, answers to the subjective questionnaires did not differ significantly between the groups. Two of the 13 question items showed a statistical difference between lens transparency and increase in the CFF (lens 3 > lens 2 > lens 1)., Conclusions: The higher the blocking effect of the lens, the lower the reduction in the CFF, suggesting that blocking short-wavelength light can reduce eye fatigue.

Objective: Compare efficacy of 0.5% proparacaine eye drops and oral 25% dextrose in reducing pain during screening for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)., Patients and Methods: Double-blinded randomized controlled trial. Twenty eligible babies were randomized. Group I received 0.5% proparacaine eye drops at first ROP screening, while Group II received 25% dextrose orally. At second examination, babies received no intervention. Pain was assessed using Premature Infant Pain Profile (PIPP) score., Results: The mean ( ± SD) PIPP during procedure in Group I were 15.5 ± 2.06 and 14 ± 2.4 at first and second screening (p = 0.259). The mean ( ± SD) PIPP in Group II were 14.2 ± 1. 8 and 14.9 ± 2.5 at the first and second screening (p = 0.428). Differences were not statistically significant. The PIPP scores of Group I and Group II at the first screening were also not significantly different (p = 0.165)., Conclusion: ROP screening causes moderate to severe pain and neither proparacaine nor dextrose is an effective analgesic., (© The Author [2014]. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Purpose: Some studies have shown a significant reduction of postoperative pain by additional regional anesthesia in 20-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (20-G-ppV) with the patient under general anesthesia (AN). This observational study examined whether the advantages of additional retrobulbar anesthesia can also be observed with 23-gauge vitrectomy in AN., Material and Methods: Surgery was performed in 130 patients under AN of which 88 received an additional retrobulbar block (group AN+) and 42 patients were treated without additional injection of retrobulbar anesthesia (group AN) using bupivacaine 0.5 % and mepivacaine 1%. The AN was performed with fentanyl and propofol. Postoperatively, the subjective patient pain was recorded using a numeric scale and the use and amount of analgesic drugs in the postoperative course were monitored., Results: The mean age of the patients was 53.6 ± 16.8 years, 52.6% of the patients were male, 31.5% were staged as American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) level I, 52.3% as ASA II and 15.4% as ASA III. At no time did the study show a statistically significant difference in pain frequency, intensity and analgesic consumption. However, the results suggest that patients in the AN+ group tended to experienced delayed and more intense postoperative pain, which is also reflected in the postoperative use of pain relief medications., Conclusions: This study did not show any advantage by additional retrobulbar anesthesia regarding postoperative analgesia compared to an adequate treatment with peripheral acting analgesics during surgery and the early postoperative period.

Purpose: To compare the efficacy, safety and postoperative pain of mechanical versus transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) techniques., Setting: Cornea and refractive surgery subspecialty., Design: Prospective clinical trial., Methods: This prospective comparative study included 84 eyes of 42 patients with myopia who received mechanical PRK (m-PRK) in 1 eye and transepithelial PRK (t-PRK) in the contralateral eye. The mean patient age was 28.5±6.3 years (range 20-46 years). Postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), manifest refractions, postoperative epithelial healing time, surgical time, postoperative pain rating and corneal haze were recorded., Results: At week 1, statistically the UDVA was significantly better in the t-PRK eyes; however, at 3 months, similar refractive stability was achieved in both groups. The mean spherical equivalent (SE) decreased from -2.44±1.00D (m-PRK eyes) and -2.88±1.24D (t-PRK eyes) at baseline to -0.19±0.38D and -0.30±0.40D, respectively, after 1 year. Surgical time was 98.6±9.8s in m-PRK eyes and 58.0±6.4s in t-PRK eyes. On postoperative days 1 and 3, using the global assessment rating, 81% of mPRK eyes that had pain, reported more pain than that reported for the tPRK eyes. In addition, m-PRK treated eyes demonstrated higher mean pain scores based on the 11-point numerical rating scale and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The mean time to complete epithelial healing was 2.19±0.39 days (t-PRK) and 3.76±0.43 days (m-PRK)., Conclusion: t-PRK for mild-to-moderate myopia was more comfortable than conventional m-PRK; patients had less pain, and faster healing time., (Copyright © 2014 British Contact Lens Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)