Rupture of radial keratotomy incisions by blunt trauma 6 years after combined photorefractive keratectomy/radial keratotomy

J Refract Surg. 2003 Jul-Aug;19(4):460-2. doi: 10.3928/1081-597X-20030701-14.

Abstract

Purpose: To report a case of traumatic corneal rupture that occurred 6 years previous, following combined radial keratotomy (RK) and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

Methods: A 28-year-old man experienced a severe direct trauma to the right eye. Upon initial examination, a ruptured globe was diagnosed. Four of the eight radial incisions were ruptured with extrusion of intraocular tissues. The patient was also diagnosed with a fracture of the medial wall of the right orbit. The patient received immediate surgery during which the radial incisions that had been torn were stitched with a suture.

Results: Following the postoperative period, the patient had visual acuity of light perception.

Conclusion: PRK, carried out on a cornea already treated with RK, may increase the likelihood of rupture in blunt trauma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cornea / surgery*
  • Corneal Injuries*
  • Eye Injuries / complications*
  • Eye Injuries / surgery
  • Humans
  • Keratotomy, Radial*
  • Lasers, Excimer
  • Male
  • Orbital Fractures / etiology
  • Orbital Fractures / surgery
  • Photorefractive Keratectomy*
  • Rupture
  • Surgical Wound Dehiscence / etiology*
  • Surgical Wound Dehiscence / surgery
  • Time Factors
  • Visual Acuity
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / complications*
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / surgery