MAR 04, 2016
Refractive Lenticule Extraction Complications
By Arturo J. Ramirez-Miranda, MD; Alejandro Navas, MD; Jaime Larrea Sr, MD; Enrique O. Graue Hernandez, MD
AAO 2015
Refractive Mgmt/Intervention
In this video, the authors report a retrospective review of complications associated with refractive lenticule extraction (ReLEx) in its 2 modalities, femtosecond lenticule extraction (FLEx) and small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE), and their resolution. 15 FLEx eyes presented with surgical-related complications (18.3%) including suction loss, a lenticule that failed to be created, decentered treatment, and lenticule misdissection. 43 SMILE eyes presented with surgical complications (26.87%) including epithelial defect (the most frequent), suction loss, lenticule misdissection, cap rupture, and lenticule rupture. Although ReLEx complications can occur, most can be solved favorably and are not visually significant.