Development of Interface Haze after Femtosecond Laser-assisted in situ Keratomileusis with Accelerated Corneal Crosslinking: a Case Series

Abstract

Abstract Background: Femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK) with accelerated corneal crosslinking (FS-LASIK Xtra) is a recent procedure to achieve safer corneal ablation in myopic patients with borderline corneal thickness. Despite its well-accepted effectiveness, the development of remarkable interface haze is a potential concern but has rarely been reported and discussed. Case presentation: we report for the first time a case series of 11 eyes of 7 patients who developed typical interface haze 1-3 months after FS-LASIK Xtra for the correction of myopia with astigmatism, with intensity grades ranging from 0.5+ to 3+ at the time of onset. Their preclinical spherical diopters ranged from -2.25 D to -9.25 D and cylindrical diopters ranged from -0.25 D to -2.50 D. The haze tended to be self-limiting, and topical anti-inflammatory therapy were given to moderate and severe cases, who responded well to treatment. Conclusion: The development of clinically significant interface haze is a relatively rare complication after FS-LASIK Xtra but tends to have a higher incidence and intensity compared to conventional stromal surgery such as FS-LASIK. Timely treatment and close follow-up are essential to patients undertaking FS-LASIK Xtra.