The use of topical ketorolac 0.5% for pain relief following cyclophotocoagulation.

Author(s): Birt CM

Affiliation(s): Sunnybrook and Womens College Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Publication date & source: 2003-09, Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging., 34(5):381-5.

Publication type: Clinical Trial; Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Laser cycloablation is frequently used for glaucoma palliation. Although usually successful, the procedure is often accompanied by pain. The purpose of this prospective, randomized study was to study topical ketorolac for the amelioration of pain following cycloablation. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirty-six patients requiring a cyclodestructive procedure were randomized into two groups. Each group received a standardized cycloablative laser procedure and routine postoperative drops. Patients were randomized to receive additional topical ketorolac or not. Patients indicated by a mark on a standardized 100-mm line their subjective experience of pain. RESULTS: There were no differences between the patient groups regarding preoperative demographic factors. There was a significant difference between the groups in the average and daily pain rating, with the ketorolac therapy group reporting significantly less pain. CONCLUSION: The addition of topical ketorolac significantly lessened the pain reported by patients following a cyclodestructive laser procedure.