title: The treatment of persistent wound leak after radial keratotomy.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Macroperforation of the cornea during refractive keratotomy can result in persistent wound leak and may need treatment by suturing.
  
  
  METHODS
  We describe two eyes that developed a macroperforation during radial keratotomy with persistent leakage of aqueous. The wounds were sutured with 10-0 and 11-0 nylon sutures.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The sutures induced irregular astigmatism as shown by corneal topography. Removal of sutures improved the topography and led to an acceptable outcome.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Macroperforations with persistent aqueous leaks should be sutured. Suture removal within a few weeks after surgery can avoid persistent irregular astigmatism and lead to a good refractive result.
authors: Department of Ophthalmology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-4197.
authors: S
authors: S
authors: MacRae
authors: W
authors: W
authors: Cox
authors: R
authors: R
authors: Bedrossian
authors: L F
authors: LF
authors: Rich
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001082:Aqueous Humor / Q000378:metabolism; D001251:Astigmatism / Q000209:etiology; D065306:Corneal Injuries; D015807:Eye Injuries, Penetrating / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D007646:Keratotomy, Radial / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D013536:Suture Techniques / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014792:Visual Acuity