Incision separation after eye rubbing on a postradial keratotomy cornea: a case report.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this case report is to explore the diagnosis and the treatment of a complication secondary to a radial keratotomy (RK) surgery. It illustrates the fact that, even more than 20 years after the procedure, corneas that underwent RK procedures may still be at risk for complications.


METHODS
The patient was seen in emergency department in September 2008 for a red and painful eye. Examination revealed a separation of one RK incision consequent to heavy eye rubbing. Treatment initiated for this condition is similar to treatment of minor corneal erosion and is explained.


RESULTS
After intensive lubrication, the condition healed in 2 weeks, without further complications.


CONCLUSIONS
It is shown that patients after RK remain at risk for corneal complications over the years after their initial surgical procedures. Patients should be educated about the fragility of their cornea and globe and to do not rub their eyes. Eye care practitioners should reinforce these messages periodically. A close follow-up of post-RK patients is needed to keep these patients in optimal ocular health.
Michaud
Langis
L
Ecole d'optométrie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. langis.michaud@umontreal.ca
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D019072:Antibiotic Prophylaxis; D004917:Erythromycin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005123:Eye; D006801:Humans; D007646:Keratotomy, Radial / Q000009:adverse effects*; D054327:Lubricants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008297:Male; D008405:Massage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D011184:Postoperative Period; D013529:Surgical Wound Dehiscence / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D013666:Tears / Q000378:metabolism; D013997:Time Factors; D014792:Visual Acuity; D014945:Wound Healing
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D054327:Lubricants; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D004917:Erythromycin