Epithelial ingrowth: Causes, prevention, and treatment in 5 cases

Purpose: To examine the clinical course, treatment, and outcome in 5 cases of epithelial ingrowth following laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Setting: The Eye Institute, Sydney, Australia. Methods: Five patients with adequate follow-up were selected. Each patient had developed epithelial ingrowth as a consequence of LASIK, and each repre sented a different clinical course in terms of severity, time, and treatmen t of the epithelial ingrowth. Results: Treatment ranged from observation, lifting and manual removal, pho totherapeutic keratectomy, alcohol application, removal of the corneal cap, and penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). Outcomes ranging from retention of pre operative best corrected visual acuity to the need for PKP reflect the wide disparity in the severity of this complication and the therapeutic interve ntions required. Conclusion: Epithelial ingrowth is a relatively uncommon complication follo wing LASIK Suggestions for prevention and treatment are made. (C) 2001 ASCR S and ESCRS.