Topical diclofenac following excimer laser: effect on corneal sensitivity and wound healing in rabbits.

BACKGROUND

Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) that is widely used systemically and topically. We studied the effect of diclofenac on corneal reepithelialization and corneal sensitivity after excimer laser treatment in rabbits.

METHODS

Twelve New Zealand white rabbits were divided into four groups (A, B, C, and D). Groups A and B received diclofenac four times and eight times daily, respectively, following a central 5-millimeter epithelial debridement. Groups C (control) and D (diclofenac four times daily) underwent excimer laser ablation (30-micrometer depth) following manual debridement. Wound healing was compared between groups A and B and groups C and D. Sensitivity was recorded preoperatively and postoperatively 1 to 5 and 14 days in groups C and D until normal values were reestablished.

RESULTS

Total time for corneal wound healing and epithelial migration rates was not delayed in any group receiving diclofenac (A, B, and D). Sensitivity after laser ablation reached a minimum of 15% to 20% in both groups C and D by day 2 and returned to normal (100%) by day 8. The decrease in sensitivity between group C, the controls, and group D, receiving diclofenac four times daily, was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Diclofenac can be used up to eight times daily in the rabbit without causing changes in corneal wound healing or epithelial migration rate. There was no significant, long-term reduction of sensitivity, and recovery was not affected by diclofenac.