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Technique can reduce epithelial ingrowth after LASIK

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ORLANDO, Fla. — One of LASIK's most common complications, recurrent epithelial ingrowth, can be controlled through a series of simple steps, John A. Hovanesian, MD, said here.

While removing the ingrowth in cases of enhancement surgery in which a flap has already been lifted and replaced tends to fail due to a high rate of recurrence, a basic procedure has proven successful, Dr. Hovanesian said during Refractive Surgery Subspecialty Day that preceded the American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting.

In this related video, Dr. Hovanesian describes removing epithelium from the external surface of the flap and surrounding cornea. After more ephithelial cells are removed from the flap and flap interface, it is secured using 10-0 nylon suture and fibrin tissue adhesive to limit recurrence, Dr. Hovanesian said.

Use of the technique was shown in a published study of 38 eyes to result in no recurrence or limited recurrence in 92% of subjects, he said.

• Disclosure: Dr. Hovanesian has no relevant disclosures.