Treatment of Epithelial Ingrowth after Laser in Situ Keratomilusis Using Amniotic Membrane Patch

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To present the result of a new technique for compressing the flap with amniotic membrane patch to manage epithelial ingrowth following a lacerated or microperforated flap near the visual axis during laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery. METHODS: Four patients having epithelial ingrowth involving the visual axis were treated as follows: Under a surgical microscope, 3~5 landmark sutures were located at the margin of the flap and the flap was lifted carefully. After removing epithelial cells, preplaced corneal sutures were tied to fix the flap and a prepared amniotic membrane patch was tightly sutured to the sclera to compress the entire cornea. The amniotic membrane overlay was maintained for about a week and then removed. RESULTS: All four eyes achieved a best corrected visual acuity of 20/25 or better and no eyes have shown signs of recurrence within 3 months. CONCLUSIONS: Amniotic membrane patch can be a useful way to secure the flap in the treatment of epithelial ingrowth threatening the visual axis, especially when direct sutures are deemed difficult.