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[The epithelial-flap abnormality of laser epithelial keratomileusis]
Xingtao Zhou1, Liangcheng Wu, Jinhui Dai
1Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China. zhxingtao@yahoo.com
Objective:
To investigate the technique of epithelial-flap performance and reposition and the factors related to the complication to improve the quality of laser epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK).
Methods:
Fourteen eyes (9 cases) of epithelial-flap abnormality occurring in and after the operation in 309 eyes were observed and analyzed. The factors related to the abnormal flap were listed and discussed.
Results:
The abnormal epithelial flaps of LASEK during and after the operation were free epithelial-flap, dissolution, fragments, fold, slip, and the late epithelial-flap abnormalities including epithelial defect and sub-epithelial foreign body 48 - 72 hours postoperatively. The related factors of complication included the shallow cut of micro-trephine, improper (too small) cut ring, improper concentration of alcohol, the invasion of alcohol solution, dry center of epithelial-flap, corneal epithelial injury by irrigation, and too early removal of contact lens.
Conclusion:
The epithelial-flap of LASEK is frailer than that of LASIK. The key point in the performance of a fine epithelial-flap is to manage every procedure carefully.