[Chemical injuries of the eye - management of alkali burns.].

Chemical injuries are among the most severe injuries to the eye. Young men are most often affected. Work related injuries are more common than other types of injuries. Immediate treatment is paramount in preventing blindness. In the case of an alkali injury, an opaque cornea and a white edematous conjunctiva indicate a serious injury. In contrast, a clear cornea and a mildly to moderately irritated conjunctiva indicate a better prognosis. Copious irrigation is always the first treatment for all chemical injuries to the eye. Irrigation should be initiated as soon as possible and is to be continued until the tearfluid has regained a normal pH. Antibiotic ointment, lubrication and cycloplegic drops (e.g. Cyclogyl(R)) form the basis of treatment.

[Refractive surgery - a review.].

Refractive errors, such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism, are very common all over the world. Refractive surgery started in the latter half of the twentieth century and over the last one or two decades refractive surgery with lasers has become popular. Refractive surgery for myopia flattens the cornea of the eye and decreases its refractive power. Surgery for hyperopia on the other hand increases the curvature of the cornea and increases the refractive power. Today this is most frequently done with a lasik procedure where a flap is lifted of the cornea and the laser surgery performed underneath the flap.