title: Microcapillary sign of flap alignment in femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis.
abstract: We present an observational sign that ensures perfect alignment during femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (FS LASIK). Alignment is assured when a microsponge is used to dry the flap and the area of dryness exceeds the area of direct touch of the microsponge. The area might even reach the whole circumference of the flap at the first touch. This sign of alignment can be explained by microcapillary action. This sign was not elicited in flaps created by a microkeratome.
authors: Al Watany Eye Hospital; Ophthalmology Department, Military Medical Academy.
authors: Fathy
authors: F
authors: Fawzy
authors: Al Watany Eye Hospital; Ophthalmology Department, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
authors: Sherine S
authors: SS
authors: Wahba
authors: Al Watany Eye Hospital; Sehkraft Augenzentrum, Cologne, Germany.
authors: Nader
authors: N
authors: Fawzy
keywords: capillarity; corneal flap alignment; femtosecond LASIK flap