Anterior stromal puncture with Nd: YAG laser for recurrent corneal erosion

AbstractPurpose To evaluate the clinical results of anterior stromal puncture (ASP) using neodymium:yttrium‐aluminum‐garnet (Nd:YAG) laser for refractory recurrent corneal erosion (RCE).Methods A total of nine eyes from nine patients with unilateral RCE showing poor response to conservative therapy who were treated with Nd:YAG laser ASP from Mar to Dec 2013 were studied. The causes and frequency of erosions and the spot numbers and total energy of the Nd:YAG laser were recorded. The energy setting of the laser was 0.2 or 0.3 mJ per shot. Slit‐lamp examination, refraction, times of laser, recurrence, complications were reviewed.Results The mean preoperative attack frequency was six. The average total energy of the laser was 5.3mJ. Two of the 9 eyes received additional Nd:YAG laser treatment. The mean follow‐up time was 8.5 months. All of the treated eyes had no evidence of recurrence after operation during follow‐up. There was no significant change in refraction. No specific complication except mild corneal haze was observed.Conclusion Nd:YAG laser ASP is a safe and effective procedure to treat refractory RCE in a short period of time.