Modified relaxing incision technique for postkeratoplasty astigmatism.

A modified relaxing incision technique for postkeratoplasty astigmatism is described in this article. Following the initial, standard relaxing incision techniques, a planned spreading and recutting of the initial relaxing incision was performed at 1-3-week intervals following the initial surgery. The wound may be deepened and lengthened if more effect is needed. The number of spreading and recutting procedures is also dependent on the effect required. This additional procedure may be performed for late regression of the desired effect. The endpoint for the procedure is corneal astigmatism that will allow either spectacle or contact lens correction, depending on the patient's visual needs. Corrections of greater than 10 D of astigmatism are possible. The technique allows for evaluation of the corneal astigmatism with no sutures in place. No complications of the recutting and spreading procedure have been noted. There have been no microperforations or macroperforations requiring suturing, no infections, and no graft rejections following the procedures. Seven cases using the modified relaxing incision technique are described.