Clinically significant laser in situ keratomileusis flap striae

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Refractive Surgery
• Corneal Surgery

Background:

• Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a common refractive surgery.
• Flap striae are a potential complication that can affect visual outcomes.
• Understanding the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of LASIK flap striae is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence and risk factors for clinically significant LASIK flap striae.
• To evaluate the outcomes of LASIK flap striae before and after surgical intervention (relift and irrigation).

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case-control series involving eyes that underwent LASIK.
• Identification of eyes with striae requiring flap relift and irrigation.
• Collection and analysis of preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables.

Main Results:

• The incidence of striae requiring treatment was 0.79% (875/109,403 eyes).
• Preoperative spherical equivalent and ablation depth were significant risk factors for striae development.
• Surgical relift and irrigation improved uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), with outcomes approaching those of control eyes.

Conclusions:

• LASIK flap striae are infrequent but associated with specific preoperative risk factors.
• Surgical intervention effectively restores visual function and safety to near-baseline levels.
• Eyes treated for striae have a higher likelihood of requiring subsequent excimer laser retreatment.