Flap suturing with proparacaine for recurrent epithelial ingrowth following laser in situ keratomileusis surgery
Accepted 24 September 2004.
Purpose
To evaluate the safety and efficacy of flap suturing with proparacaine application for the management of recurrent epithelial ingrowth following laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).
Setting
Private consultation practice and Department of Ophthalmology, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Methods
Six eyes of 5 patients with recurrent epithelial ingrowth had flap lifting followed by debridement of interface epithelial cells, interface application of proparacaine, and the placement of interrupted 10-0 nylon sutures.
Results
Four eyes achieved a best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/40 or better. Two eyes required repeat debridement with suturing and were stable with at least a 1-year follow-up. No eye lost more than 1 line of BCVA. Three eyes regained excellent uncorrected visual acuity due to a reduction in induced astigmatism.
Conclusions
Recurrent epithelial ingrowth following LASIK surgery can be a visually debilitating condition. Flap suturing with interface proparacaine application may be effective in preventing further recurrences of epithelial ingrowth after initial debridement.
From the Cornea Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
Reprint requests to Randy J. Epstein, MD, Suite #928, 1725 West Harrison Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, USA.
Supported by unrestricted funding from Bausch & Lomb Surgical, San Dimas, California.
No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
ABSTRACT