What is a short flap? (Posted: jan 2005)

A short flap is the term for when the microkeratome does not complete its pass and the flap is only partially cut.

What causes it? (posted: jan 2005)

A short flap could be caused by microkeratome malfunction, loss of suction, or the surgery being aborted because of some other observable problem.

What does it mean for the patient? (posted: jan 2005)

Unless there is any other problem with the flap, an incomplete flap should not in and of itself have a significant impact on the patient's vision. What it will affect however is his/her prospects for more surgery.

How is it treated? (posted: jan 2005)

If a short flap occurs, the surgeon should not continue surgery, i.e. should not proceed to the laser treatment. S/he should simply lay the flap down and let it heal. In some cases they will re-attempt surgery by cutting a new (probably deeper) flap a few months later. Patients in this situation should be aware of the need to go deeper and read up on ectasia so as to be sure they are properly assessing the risks.

Where can I learn more about short flaps? (posted: jan 2005)

Click here for Encyclopedia entry, which may have additional articles and links.