Conjunctival Laceration

Conjunctival Laceration

Epidemiology:

Due to its exposed position, thinness, and mobility, the con-junctiva is susceptible to lacerations, which are usually associated with sub-conjunctival hemorrhage.

Etiology:

Conjunctival lacerations most commonly occur as a result of pene-trating wounds (such as from bending over a spiked-leaf palm tree or from a branch that snaps back on to the eye).

Symptoms and diagnostic considerations:

The patient experiences a for-eign body sensation. Usually this will be rather mild. Examination will reveal circumscribed conjunctival reddening or subconjunctival hemorrhage in the injured area. Occasionally only application of fluorescein dye to the injury will reveal the size of the conjunctival gap.

Treatment:

Minor conjunctival injuries do not require treatment as the con-junctiva heals quickly. Larger lacerations with mobile edges are approxi-mated with absorbable sutures.

The possibility of a perforating injury should always be considered in conjunctival injuries. When the wound is treated, the physician should inspect the underlying sclera after application of topical anesthetic.