Late traumatic dislocation of laser in situ keratomileusis corneal flaps.

PURPOSE

To report the management and outcome of late-onset traumatic dislocation of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) flaps.

DESIGN

Retrospective, observational case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Four patients with late-onset LASIK flap dislocation occurring after mechanical trauma at various intervals (10 days-2 months) after the procedure.

INTERVENTION

In all cases of postoperative traumatic LASIK flap dislocation, the flap was refloated with scraping and irrigation of the underlying stromal bed within 12 hours of the injury. A bandage contact lens was placed, and a regimen including topical antibiotics and corticosteroids was instituted in all cases.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Best spectacle-corrected visual acuity and complications associated with the surgery were monitored.

RESULTS

Postoperative follow-up ranged from 4 to 21 months. Nonprogressive epithelial ingrowth was noted in one patient and diffuse lamellar keratitis developed in another patient. All patients recovered pretrauma spectacle-corrected visual acuity.

CONCLUSIONS

Corneal LASIK flaps are prone to mechanical dislocation as late as 2 months after the procedure. Appropriate management results in recovery of optimal visual outcomes.