DLK post FS LASIK

Diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK) occurs more frequently after LASIK performed with the IntraLase 15 kHz femtosecond laser than after LASIK performed with the Moria M2 microkeratome, according to the results of a study published in the January issue of the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

Raquel Gil-Carzola from VISSUM Madrid, Spain conducted a retrospective study to compare the incidence of DLK in 2,000 consecutive LASIK procedures performed with the IntraLase 15 kHz femtosecond laser (study group) or the Moria M2 microkeratome (control group). During the first week postoperatively, topical dexamethasone drops were applied eight times daily in the femtosecond group and four times daily in the mechanical microkeratome group.

The researchers found that stage 2 DLK developed in one patient from each group but that stage 3 DLK developed in four patients in the study group and in no patients in the control group (p=0.03), despite a more intensive postoperative steroid regimen.