Management of ocular and periocular burns

Abstract

Facial burns commonly involve the eyelids. The eyeball as such is usually protected due to the blink reflex, bell's phenomenon, and protective movements of arms and head. Ocular sequelae are seen secondarily due to retraction of the burned eyelids which leads to drying of cornea and its subsequent ulceration and perforation. Permanent visual impairment is rare if prompt management is done. Superficial lid burns usually heal spontaneously and can be managed conservatively with ophthalmic antibiotic ointments, artificial tears. However, in deeper burns, early surgical intervention in the form of eschar debridement or release of contracted lids and resurfacing defects with split skin grafts can prevent secondary corneal damage. This review article elaborates the principles of management of acute ocular and periocular burns as well as the long-term management of eyelid burns.