Cornea and External Diseases

Macrostriae

Macrostriae demonstrating gross folds in the visual axis. Flap suturing has been successfully removed the striae. Note the postoperative smooth central flap.
  • Gross, linear folds in the visual axis may cause reduced vision due to optical aberrations and irregular astigmatism.

Causes

  • Thin or large flap
  • Excessive dehydration of the flap
  • High myopic or hyperopic correction
  • Uneven smoothing of the corneal flap surface after the primary procedure

Treatment

  • If identified early, the flap may be relifted, stretched, hydrated and gently smoothed to remove the striae.
  • In recalcitrant cases, suture placement at the flap edge has been reported to be successful to remove the striae.