First aid therapy for corrosive chemical eye burns: results of a 30-year longitudinal study with two different decontamination concepts

Abstract

The frequency of corrosive chemical eye burns was comparatively high despite tightening of occupational health and safety regulations over the past 30 years. The severity of corrosive chemical eye burns has been dramatically decreased since the introduction of Previn® solution for initial and secondary rinsing. A new protocol for immediate Previn® solution use by the Cologne Fire Brigade and secondary Previn® solution rinsing in hospital has reduced the frequency of severe corrosive chemical eye burns to less than 60% as compared to the period of 1988-2005 when other rinsing solutions were utilized.