Effect of microkeratome suction duration on corneal flap thickness and incision angle.

Abstract

PURPOSE: To determine the effect of suction duration on corneal flap thickness and incision angle of the cut margin created by a microkeratome in a porcine eye.

METHODS: Thirty porcine eyes were randomly assigned to three groups according to different suction duration: group 1 (10 sec), group 2 (35 sec), and group 3 (60 sec). The Hansatome microkeratome with a #160 plate and 8.5-mm-diameter suction ring was used to create a corneal flap with a diameter of 8.5 millimeters. Corneal flap thickness was measured by automated ultrasonic pachymetry, and the incision angle was assessed by measuring the angle of a sagittal section of the cornea using image analysis software.

RESULTS: Mean corneal flap thickness in groups 1 (10 sec), 2 (35 sec), and 3 (60 sec) was 87.8 +/- 22.0 microm, 116.0 +/- 7.0 microm, and 127.2 +/- 16.8 microm, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between groups 1 (10 sec) and 2 (35 sec) (P=.005) and groups 1 and 3 (P=.004). The mean incision angle in groups 1, 2, and 3 was 34.8 +/- 9.0 degrees, 44.4 +/- 16.1 degrees, and 48.24 +/- 15.3 degrees, respectively. A statistically significant difference was found between groups 1 (10 sec) and 2 (35 sec) (P=.044) and groups 1 (10 sec) and 3 (60 sec) (P<.001).

CONCLUSION: In laser in situ keratomileusis in porcine eyes, an increase in suction duration resulted in a thicker flap and greater incision angle.