Histopathology of traumatic corneal rupture after radial keratotomy

Two patients (three eyes) had previously undergone technically successful radial keratotomy procedures and subsequently sustained blunt injury to the eyes in motor vehicle accidents one and two years after surgery, respectively, with rupture of the cornea along the keratotomy scars. One case subsequently required penetrating keratoplasty to recover 20/50 visual acuity. The second patient died, but had he survived, the extensive ocular injuries would have required significant surgical and medical care to restore vision. Histologic and ultrastructural studies demonstrated incomplete wound healing in the three corneas. Individuals who have had radial keratotomy, like those who have had penetrating keratoplasty, are at increased risk of corneal rupture after direct ocular trauma.