Abstract
Abstract
Purpose:
Inadequate pain control after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) surgery can be a source of distress for patients and ophthalmologists. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of extended-release diclofenac for the management of pain after PRK surgery.
Methods:
In this prospective clinical trial study, patients in the case group were given extended-release diclofenac pre- and postoperatively, and patients in the control group were given acetaminophen and ibuprofen pre- and postoperatively. Patients were examined 2 days after PRK surgery. Pain, photophobia, and functional deficit scores were evaluated subjectively for each patient. An ophthalmologist evaluated lid swelling, conjunctival injection, and epithelial healing.
Results:
Among the 62 patients enrolled in the study, 33 patients were given extended-release diclofenac (case group) and 29 patients were given acetaminophen and ibuprofen (control group). The pain score was reduced in the case group compared to the control group (4.32±2.72 vs. 6.52±1.99, respectively; P<0.001). Photophobia, functional deficit scores, lid swelling, and conjunctival injection were significantly reduced in the case group compared to the control group.
Conclusion:
The results indicate that oral diclofenac (preoperatively) is more effective than other routine analgesics in the management of pain in PRK surgery.
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