Effect of D-Panthenol on Corneal Epithelial Healing after Surface Laser Ablation

Abstract EN

Purpose.

To study the effect of D-panthenol (provitamin B5) on corneal epithelial healing, in cases of surface laser ablation.

Patients and Methods: 45 eyes, of 45 patients undergoing laser surface ablation, received D-panthenol 2% in one eye and artificial tear drops of similar composition not containing D-panthenol in the other eye, postoperatively, for 2 months.

Patients were examined daily for 3 days after the procedure.

They were then examined weekly for 1 month.

An additional examination was made after 2 months.

Visual acuity (Log MAR) was assessed at every visit.

Rate of healing (% of covered area) and subjective sensation of discomfort (scale 0–5) were assessed in the 1st 3 visits.

Residual manifest cylinder (D) (as a parameter of corneal irregularity) and corneal clarity (epithelial and stromal haze) were assessed from week 1 to month 2.

Results.

During the first 3 days, both groups showed statistically nonsignificant (P>0.05) results.

From week 1 to month 2, eyes receiving D-panthenol showed better vision and less residual cylinder (P<0.05) at week 1.

For all other parameters, and at different examinations, both groups showed a statistically nonsignificant (P>0.05) difference.

Still, eyes receiving D-panthenol showed better values at the majority of the parameters tested.

Conclusion.

D-Panthenol effect on corneal epithelial regeneration is of minimal clinical relevance.

A different dosage and a larger sample of patients might reveal a statistical relevance.

This trial is registered with https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN81441126.