Repositioning the laser in situ keratomileusis flap at the slit lamp.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the indications and technique for repositioning the laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) flap at the slit lamp.


METHODS
We present a description of patients with striae or slippage of the flap who had repositioning of the flap at the slit lamp.


RESULTS
Indications for repositioning at the slit lamp are mostly flap striae. However, it can also be done for a displaced flap and small amounts of debridement. This procedure is not recommended for taking cultures, irrigation of diffuse lamellar keratitis, suturing the flap, or epithelial ingrowth. Repositioning the flap is done by finding the edge of the flap with the cannula, lifting the flap, sweeping the cannula to release the entire wound, and infusing balanced salt solution under the entire flap. We did not encounter infection or recurrent epithelial erosion in these patients.


CONCLUSIONS
Repositioning the LASIK flap at the slit lamp was effective and safe in the treatment of striae or flap slippage. It saved time, money, and, anxiety for the patient.
Lichter
Henia
H
Emory Vision, 4170 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30319, USA.
Russell
Gregg E
GE
Waring
George O
GO
D000328:Adult; D003319:Corneal Stroma / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D020731:Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ; D008297:Male; D009216:Myopia / Q000601:surgery; D013508:Ophthalmologic Surgical Procedures; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000601:surgery*; D012086:Reoperation; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D014792:Visual Acuity