Pterygium excision after LASIK

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the management of a symptomatic pterygium in an eye with previous LASIK surgery. Observations: Significant infiltration of the LASIK flap by the pterygium was noted intraoperatively necessitating the frequent use of a crescent blade. The infiltrative behavior of the pterygium may reflect the inflammatory state after laser refractive surgery. Conclusions and Importance: Pterygia are highly prevalent, and with the increasing prevalence of LASIK surgery, the coexistence of these 2 conditions is expected to be increasingly more likely. Optimizing the management of this condition can result in a good functional and cosmetic outcome.

Keywords

• Pterygium
• LASIK
• Cornea
• dry eye