Prognosis
In the absence of severe ocular compromise, most conservative treatment for corneal abrasions and conjunctivitis will produce healing within 48-72 hours. Visual rehabilitation should be initiated early, especially for children who may develop amblyopia (lazy eye) after a very short period of visual deprivation. Vision rehabilitation is especially important if the patient is expected to have permanent visual impairment.[76]
Chemical trauma
The prognosis is influenced by the chemical involved, the extent of ocular surface injury, the degree of skin burns, and the effect on the eyelids and cornea. Most chemical exposures to the eye are from substances that are not caustic have excellent recovery.
Poor prognosis is associated with extensive damage to the limbal epithelium by ischemia of the limbal vasculature.[77][78] Depending on the extent of the exposure, loss of vision can occur.
Subconjunctival hemorrhage, corneal abrasions, and traumatic iritis
Generally, a full recovery is made. However, up to 8% of corneal erosions will recur.[79]
Ultraviolet light injuries
Recovery often occurs within a few days. Prognosis for solar retinopathy depends on the amount of exposure from sungazing. Permanent decrease of vision can occur because of retinal damage.
Hyphema
The prognosis depends on the size of the hyphema, whether or not there is rebleeding, and associated ocular injuries. Decreased vision and glaucoma may occur.
Lid lacerations
Generally, there is a good outcome. As with any cuts, infection is a potential complication along with scarring.
Corneal and conjunctival foreign bodies
Removal of a corneal rust ring can result in scarring on the cornea. Depending on the location on the conjunctiva or cornea, the potential for affecting vision exists.
Open globe trauma
The prognosis depends on the extent of trauma. The final visual outcome is correlated with the initial visual acuity, the presence of an afferent pupillary defect, the type of ocular trauma (ruptures and perforating injuries have worse outcome), and the presence of complications (e.g., endophthalmitis, retinal detachment).
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