Interface blood as a new indication for flap lift after LASIK using the WaveLight FS200 femtosecond laser.

PURPOSE: To report a new indication for flap lift of interface blood using the WaveLight FS200 femtosecond laser (Alcon Laboratories, Inc., Fort Worth, TX).

METHODS

The unique evacuation canal of the FS200 femtosecond laser allows blood from injured limbal vasculature to accumulate. In rare instances, blood extends from the canal into the flap interface, requiring a flap lift. All flap lifts were performed using the microscope in the laser suite on the FS200 femtosecond laser to remove postoperative flap interface blood in 3 eyes of 3 patients.

RESULTS

All interface blood was removed and no patients experienced re-bleeding. Postoperatively, patients achieved an uncorrected visual acuity of 20/20.

CONCLUSIONS

When intracanal blood is noted, planned incomplete dissection of the flap to the canal edge may prevent the progression of blood in the interface.