Interface blood as a new indication for flap lift after LASIK using the WaveLight FS200 femtosecond laser.

Purpose: To report a new indication for flap lift of interface blood using the WaveLight FS200 femtosecond laser (Alcon Laboratories, Inc., Fort Worth, TX).

Methods: The unique evacuation canal of the FS200 femtosecond laser allows blood from injured limbal vasculature to accumulate. In rare instances, blood extends from the canal into the flap interface, requiring a flap lift. All flap lifts were performed using the microscope in the laser suite on the FS200 femtosecond laser to remove postoperative flap interface blood in 3 eyes of 3 patients.

Results: All interface blood was removed and no patients experienced re-bleeding. Postoperatively, patients achieved an uncorrected visual acuity of 20/20.

Conclusions: When intracanal blood is noted, planned incomplete dissection of the flap to the canal edge may prevent the progression of blood in the interface.