Stop sign for correct tissue plane identification in small incision lenticule extraction

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Refractive Surgery
• Ophthalmic Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) is a popular refractive surgical procedure.
• Accurate dissection of the lenticular plane is crucial for successful SMILE outcomes.
• Complications can arise from imprecise dissection of the lenticule from the corneal cap and stroma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel technique, the "stop sign", for precise lenticular plane delineation in SMILE.
• To enhance the accuracy of lenticule dissection during SMILE surgery.
• To reduce surgical complications associated with incorrect tissue plane separation.

Main Methods:

• The
• stop sign
• is identified by the resistance felt at the junction of dissected and undissected tissue planes.
• This resistance is observed during dissection of both anterior and posterior lenticular planes.
• The technique facilitates controlled lateral movement of the surgical instrument.

Main Results:

• The
• stop sign
• provides clear feedback for correct anterior and posterior lenticular plane delineation.
• It enables ideal dissection of the lenticule from the overlying corneal cap and underlying stroma.
• Consistent identification of the
• stop sign
• is associated with reduced dissection-related complications.

Conclusions:

• The
• stop sign
• is a valuable visual and tactile cue for accurate lenticular plane dissection in SMILE.
• Implementing this sign can improve surgical precision and patient outcomes in SMILE procedures.
• This technique offers a method to minimize complications stemming from inaccurate tissue plane management.