[Striae in the flap after laser in situ keratomileusis. Etiology, diagnosis and treatment].

Objective: Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) has become the leading refractive option to correct myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. In addition to the relative rapid visual recovery and the lack of postoperative pain, new flap-related complications are being added. The formation of striae can lead to a significant loss of corrected visual acuity if the central pupil zone is affected. Awareness of possible complications is important not only for the surgeon, but also for the ophthalmologist in practice for a rapid diagnosis and prompt management.
Clinical Course and Therapy: Striae have a variety of appearances and are caused by misalignment/displacement of the corneal flap after replacement or are results of a slippage effect of the flap over the stromal bed after LASIK. Symptomatic striae ideally are treated on the first or second day after surgery by refloating the flap, irrigation with balanced salt solution or hypotonic saline solution, stroking and stretching the surface with moist and dry sponges. In more severe cases scraping away the epithelium and antitorque or interrupted sutures can be performed to treat persistent striae.
Conclusion: Symptomatic deep striae should be diagnosed early and managed promptly within the first days. Any later intervention decreases the chance of successful elimination and visual outcome. Hints to prevent the development of striae formation are provided.