A SIMPLE METHOD FOR THE REMOVAL OF EPITHELIUM GROWN BENEATH THE HINGEAFTER LASIK

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate a method of how to remove epithelium grown beneath the hinge area after laser in situ keratomile usis (LASIK) without affecting the refractive part of the lenticule. I n three cases, an incision was made at the base of the hinge by RK dia mond knife to free the lenticule from the stroma. The lenticule was li fted from the nar;al edge. The epithelium grown along the interface be neath the hinge area war; removed with a Bard-Parker No. 15 knife. The lenticular flap was repositioned with interrupted sutures using 10-0 nylon. No further epithelial ingrowth war; observed The central cornea remained clear leaving a peripheral ring-shaped opacity without affec ting the preoperative naked visual acuity. In conclusion, epithelial i ngrowth along the interface after LASIK can be removed safely without affecting the refractive part by the incision of the hinge area with a RK diamond knife, removal of the epithelium, and suturing of the lent icule to the stromal bed.