J Korean Ophthalmol Soc.  2004 Jun;45(6):1024-1029.

The Effect of Repeated Use of the Disposable Blade in Automated Microkeratome on the Corneal Flap Dimensions and Cut Quality

• Oh CH
• Song JS
• Kim HM

Abstract

PURPOSE
To evaluate changes in the blade, flap dimensions, and stromal bed with repeated use of disposable blade in LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis) surgery. METHODS: A keratome was used to make a corneal flap in pig cadaver eyes, with the blades being reused up to five times. The thickness and diameter of each corneal flap was measured. Scanning electron microscopy of the stromal beds and blade cutting edges was performed to determine the effect that repeated use of the blade had on the stromal bed, and on the cutting edge of the blade. RESULTS: The thickness/diameter of flap was 169.73 +/- 7.55 micro meter/8.60 +/- 0.23 mm after single use and 142.93 +/- 13.10 micro meter/8.72 +/- 0.20 mm after being used five times, with both demensions decreasing as the blade was used more. The edge of the blade became blunt and irregular and the cutting surface rough and irregular with continual use. CONCLUSIONS: During LASIK surgery, reused blades became blunt, causing a thin flap, rough cutting face, and complications such as irregular astigmatism clinically.

Keyword

Corneal flap dimensions; Cut quality; LASIK; Microkeratome; Repeated blade

MeSH Terms

Astigmatism
Cadaver
Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning