Related Experiment Videos
The treatment of persistent wound leak after radial keratotomy
S MacRae1, W Cox, R Bedrossian
1Department of Ophthalmology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-4197.
Background:
Macroperforation of the cornea during refractive keratotomy can result in persistent wound leak and may need treatment by suturing.
Methods:
We describe two eyes that developed a macroperforation during radial keratotomy with persistent leakage of aqueous. The wounds were sutured with 10-0 and 11-0 nylon sutures.
Results:
The sutures induced irregular astigmatism as shown by corneal topography. Removal of sutures improved the topography and led to an acceptable outcome.
Conclusion:
Macroperforations with persistent aqueous leaks should be sutured. Suture removal within a few weeks after surgery can avoid persistent irregular astigmatism and lead to a good refractive result.