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Flap suturing with proparacaine for recurrent epithelial ingrowth following laser in situ keratomileusis surgery
Holly M Spanggord1, Randy J Epstein, Howard A Lane
1Cornea Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Purpose:
To evaluate the safety and efficacy of flap suturing with proparacaine application for the management of recurrent epithelial ingrowth following laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).
Setting:
Private consultation practice and Department of Ophthalmology, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Methods:
Six eyes of 5 patients with recurrent epithelial ingrowth had flap lifting followed by debridement of interface epithelial cells, interface application of proparacaine, and the placement of interrupted 10-0 nylon sutures.
Results:
Four eyes achieved a best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/40 or better. Two eyes required repeat debridement with suturing and were stable with at least a 1-year follow-up. No eye lost more than 1 line of BCVA. Three eyes regained excellent uncorrected visual acuity due to a reduction in induced astigmatism.
Conclusions:
Recurrent epithelial ingrowth following LASIK surgery can be a visually debilitating condition. Flap suturing with interface proparacaine application may be effective in preventing further recurrences of epithelial ingrowth after initial debridement.