Flap double twist technique for prevention of LASIK flap striae

Abstract

A novel flap double twist technique was applied to reduce the incidence of post-laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) flap striae. The flap is floated and stroked in the same way as is done for management of first postoperative day striae, where the method is to float and irrigate the flap into position, followed by applying gentle pressure on the flap with a wet Merocel microsponge and moving the flap away from the hinge position. The sponge is then manually squeezed to become drier, and the flap is continuously stroked in a direction opposite to the hinge. Next, the flap is carefully twisted obliquely and sequentially in two opposite directions while applying gentle pressure on the flap in order to completely dehydrate the flap and stromal bed. Finally, the flap is repositioned while applying gentle horizontal pressure in two opposite directions. This novel flap double twist technique shows great success in post-LASIK striae prevention.