To evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical NSAIDs and topical anesthetics on post-PRK pain control, we performed a prospective, randomized, paralle group, placebe-controlled study of 105 consecutive eyes having excimer laser PRK, that were divided into 7 pain management groups. The groups were arranged in order, Group 1: Suprofen(Profenal), Group 2: Diclofenac I(Naclof), Group 3: Diclofenac II (Decrol), Group 4: diluted proparacaine, Group 5: Diclofenac I(Naclof)+diluted proparacaine, Group 6: Fluorometholone, Group 7(conrol): Tears Naturale. Results were evaluated by several types of questionnaires and pain score was recorded using visual analogue scale. Corneal epithelial defect area was measured on post-operative day 1, 2, 3, 4 and 1 week. Diclofenac-treated groups showed the best analgesic effect and the least discomfort at instillation. Diclofenac, used with diluted proparacaine, had some additive effect on pain control, but not statistically significant. Full epithelial closure occurred in all eyes within 4 days without any clinically significant complications. Topical diclofenac and combinatin with diluted proparacaine can be used in post-PRK pain management effectively and safely.
Anesthetics ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal* ; Diclofenac ; Fluorometholone ; Lasers, Excimer ; Pain Management ; Prospective Studies ; Surveys and Questionnaires