A Case of Central Corneal Epithelial Defect Management during Fs-LASIK

Femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (Fs-LASIK) is a type of corneal refractive surgery. Central corneal epithelial defect during Fs-LASIK is an uncommon complication that can increase the risk of infectious keratitis, diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK), and recurrent corneal epithelial erosion. This article reports a case of a patient who experienced large-scale central corneal epithelial defect during unilateral Fs-LASIK. After bandage contact lens treatment, the corneal epithelium exhibited hypoxia and diffuse epithelial defects. Subsequent removal of the bandage contact lens resulted in epithelial repair but accompanied by DLK. The treatment course included addressing epithelial ex-foliationafter anti-inflammatory therapy. Through analysis, this case highlights the importance of medication and proper use of bandage lenses when managing central corneal epithelial exfoliation during Fs-LASIK. Clinical practitioners should exercise caution, closely monitor post-bandage contact lens reactions, adjust medication promptly to ensure timely epithelial repair, and prevent vision impairment caused by infection, inflammation, and recurrence.