Epithelial breakthrough during IntraLase flap creation for laser in situ keratomileusis

J Cataract Refract Surg. 2008 May;34(5):859-63. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrs.2007.12.043.

Abstract

We report the clinical manifestations and outcomes in 4 patients who experienced premature gas-bubble leakage during raster lamellar dissection during IntraLase femtosecond laser corneal flap creation. Three patients experienced a full-thickness epithelial breakthrough and the fourth, a flap tear. The patient who experienced the flap tear was unable to have laser in situ keratomileusis successfully. The flap complications did not result in a decreased best corrected visual acuity in any patient but may have resulted in epithelial ingrowth in one and a corneal scar and microstriae in another. Potential predisposing factors for epithelial breakthrough, the incidence of epithelial breakthrough, and methods for avoiding and salvaging traumatic corneal flaps are discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Corneal Stroma / surgery
  • Epithelium, Corneal / pathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intraoperative Complications*
  • Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ / adverse effects*
  • Lasers, Excimer / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Myopia / surgery
  • Surgical Flaps*