Late-onset repetitive traumatic flap folds and partial dehiscence of flap edge after laser in situ keratomileusis

Laceration and Partial Dislocation of LASIK Flaps 7 and 4 Years Postoperatively With 20/20 Visual Acuity After Repair

PURPOSE

To report two cases of late ocular trauma resulting in laceration of corneal flaps 7 and 4 years (cases 1 and 2, respectively) after LASIK.

METHODS

A 49-year-old man sustained laceration of the flap and interface foreign body debris from construction material in the right eye 7 years after uneventful LASIK (case 1). A 33-year-old man had partial dislocation of the flap 4 years after LASIK in the left eye (case 2) due to a penetrating wood chip accident. Surgical procedures were performed to remove the foreign bodies and reposition the flaps.

RESULTS

In case 1, postoperative uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) was 20/25 with manifest refraction of -0.50 -0.50 x 110 corrected to 20/20. In case 2, UCVA was 20/20 with piano refraction after LASIK retreatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Corneal LASIK flaps are susceptible to penetrating trauma, which can occur >7 years after the procedure. Proper everamanage ment of the trauma and LASIK flap can restore excellent visual acuity.