What is a corneal laceration?

A corneal laceration is the sharp disruption of the cornea.  Corneal lacerations vary in depth from partial thickness to full thickness lacerations.  Corneal lacerations are always associated of a sharp trauma.

What causes a corneal laceration?

Corneal lacerations are always a result of a sharp trauma of the eye, and can be potentially coupled with a lens laceration.  Cat scratches to the eye are the most common presentations.

Why are lacerations important?

Disruption of the cornea results in the loss of structural integrity of the globe as well as being very painful.  A corneal laceration that is not treated properly can result in permanent damage to the eye that may result in decreased vision or even loss of the eye.

What is the treatment for a corneal laceration?

The treatment for a corneal laceration is the surgical repair of the cornea.  If the globe has been ruptured, certain substances are needed to reform the globe.  If the lens is also lacerated, removal of the lens, in a process known as phacoemulsification, will need to be performed.  This advanced procedure allows for the complete removal of the lens and, if the lens capsule is sufficiently intact, placement of an artificial lens that will result in the return of normal vision.  A corneal laceration is considered an emergency and should be addressed immediately.