On Improving the Classification of Eye Burns

    Abstract

    On Improving the Classification of Eye Burns

    A.N. Kulikov, V.F. Chernysh, S.V. Churashov

    S. Kirov Military Medical Academy, Saint Petersburg

    Currently, the classification of eye burns, proposed in 1973 by N.A. Puchkovskaya and V.M. Nepomyashaya. Over the last years, knowledges about the pathophysiology of the burn process has been significantly expanded in the world of ophthalmology. The emergence, in particular, of the concept of limbal stem cells of the corneal epithelium and its application in clinical practice has significantly expanded the possibilities for the diagnosis, treatment, and visual rehabilitation of patients with eye burns. In 1997, M.D. Wagoner proposed a classification of eye burns, in which the grade of burn severity is determined by the degree of damage to the limbal stem cells. Given this approach, the authors conducted a comparative analysis of the classifications of eye burns (of different years) in our country and those that have appeared in the West in recent years. In this regard, the attention of ophthalmologists is offered a new classification of eye burns.

    Key words: eye burns, classification, severity, ischemia, necrosis, conjunctivalization, limbal stem cells, limbal insufficiency.