Yonsei Med J.  1998 Jun;39(3):236-239. 10.3349/ymj.1998.39.3.236.

A simple method for the removal of epithelium grown beneath the hinge after LASIK

• Lim JS
• Kim EK
• Lee JB
• Lee JH

• KMID: 711552
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3349/ymj.1998.39.3.236

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate a method of how to remove epithelium grown beneath the hinge area after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) without affecting the refractive part of the lenticule. In three cases, an incision was made at the base of the hinge by RK diamond knife to free the lenticule from the stroma. The lenticule was lifted from the nasal edge. The epithelium grown along the interface beneath the hinge area was removed with a Bard-Parker No. 15 knife. The lenticular flap was repositioned with interrupted sutures using 10-0 nylon. No further epithelial ingrowth was observed. The central cornea remained clear leaving a peripheral ring-shaped opacity without affecting the preoperative naked visual acuity. In conclusion, epithelial ingrowth along the interface after LASIK can be removed safely without affecting the refractive part by the incision of the hinge area with a RK diamond knife, removal of the epithelium, and suturing of the lenticule to the stromal bed.

Keyword

Epithelial ingrowth; hinge; interrupted sutures; laser in situ keratomileusis

MeSH Terms

Adult
Epithelium, Corneal/surgery*
Epithelium, Corneal/pathology*
Female
Human
Keratectomy, Photorefractive, Excimer Laser/adverse effects*
Male
Reoperation
Suture Techniques
Treatment Outcome
Visual Acuity/physiology