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Related Experiment Videos

Thin head and single use microkeratomes reduce epithelial defects during LASIK.

Stephen S Khachikian1, R Todd Morason, Michael W Belin

  • 1Albany Medical Center Albany, NY, USA. skhachik@nycap.rr.com

Journal of Refractive Surgery (Thorofare, N.J. : 1995)
|May 26, 2006
PubMed
Summary

Thinner corneal flaps created by microkeratome design and head dimension significantly reduce epithelial defects during LASIK surgery. These surgeon-controlled factors help minimize complications.

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Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Surgical Technology

Background:

  • Epithelial defects are a common complication following LASIK surgery.
  • Microkeratome design and head dimension are critical surgical parameters influencing flap creation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of microkeratome design and head dimension on the incidence of epithelial defects during LASIK.
  • To identify surgeon-selectable factors that can mitigate the risk of epithelial defects.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 4000 LASIK procedures.
  • Data collected included microkeratome design (reusable vs. disposable) and head dimensions (100, 130, 150 microns).
  • Statistical analysis using chi-square and Student t-tests.

Main Results:

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  • A total of 8.2% of procedures resulted in epithelial defects.
  • Thinner flaps produced by reusable microkeratome heads were associated with fewer defects.
  • The disposable 130-micron head showed a significantly lower defect rate compared to reusable heads.

Conclusions:

  • Microkeratome design and head dimension (corneal flap thickness) are significant factors in epithelial defect formation.
  • These surgeon-selectable parameters can be utilized to reduce the occurrence of epithelial defects.
  • Reducing epithelial defects can lead to fewer LASIK-related complications.