A corneal epithelial debridement using three different instruments was performed in rabbits, and the rates of corneal epithelium recovery were compared. Additionally, the extent of corneal damage as determined by the scanning electron microscopy was evaluated in each group.

Nineteen eyes of ten rabbits were classified into three groups according to the instruments used. The corneal epithelial debridement was performed using three different instruments: a Beaver blade (group A), a Bard-Parker blade No.15 (group B) and a dry cotton-tipped applicator (group C). After epithelial debridement, each cornea was observed every 24 hours for three days. After completion of the corneal recovery, each cornea was severed along the limbus and observed under the scanning electron microscope.

The rate of corneal epithelial healing of the group C (dry cotton-tipped applicator) showed no statistical significance from those of the other groups. However, according to the corneal status observed under scanning electron microscope after debridement, cracks in the corneal surface in portions of group A and B were observed in contrast with no creaks in group C.

Based on these results, corneal epithelial debridement using a cotton-tipped applicator is expected to reduce the occurrence of postoperative corneal complications. Use of a dry cotton-tipped applicator for corneal epithelial debridement in vitreoretinal surgery is suggested.