Epithelial ingrowth: causes, prevention, and treatment in 5 cases.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the clinical course, treatment, and outcome in 5 cases of epithelial ingrowth following laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).


METHODS
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 represented a different clinical course in terms of severity, time, and treatment of the epithelial ingrowth.


RESULTS
Treatment ranged from observation, lifting and manual removal, phototherapeutic keratectomy, alcohol application, removal of the corneal cap, and penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). Outcomes ranging from retention of preoperative best corrected visual acuity to the need for PKP reflect the wide disparity in the severity of this complication and the therapeutic interventions required.


CONCLUSIONS
Epithelial ingrowth is a relatively uncommon complication following LASIK. Suggestions for prevention and treatment are made.
Domniz
Y
Y
The Eye Institute, Chatswood, Australia.
Comaish
I F
IF
Lawless
M A
MA
Sutton
G L
GL
Eckshtein
R
R
Collins
M B
MB
Rogers
C M
CM
D000328:Adult; D003315:Cornea / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D003316:Corneal Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D019781:Corneal Topography; D004847:Epithelial Cells / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020731:Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ / Q000009:adverse effects*; D015948:Keratoplasty, Penetrating; D054018:Lasers, Excimer; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009216:Myopia / Q000601:surgery; D018903:Photorefractive Keratectomy; D012086:Reoperation; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014792:Visual Acuity