Laser in situ keratomileusis interface deposits.

BACKGROUND: A clinical investigation was undertaken to determine the origin of a brown interface deposit that developed in 15 eyes after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: The LASIK procedure was evaluated and agents that were thought to be related to these brown deposits in the interface were eliminated sequentially. Eyes were observed after LASIK for presence or absence of the deposit. RESULTS: Twenty-five consecutive LASIK eyes in which a methylcellulose sponge was eliminated as a protector of the hinge developed no similar interface deposits. CONCLUSION: The use of a dry methylcellulose sponge to protect the hinge may result in unexpected interface deposits after LASIK.