Ruptured globe 10 years after radial keratotomy

PURPOSE: To report 3 cases (3 eyes) of globe rupture following blunt trauma 10 to 13 years after radial keratotomy.

METHODS: Cases of traumatic ruptured globe after radial keratotomy were reviewed from a tertiary eye care center. One eye underwent therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty, the second was treated with a bandage contact lens, and the third developed retinal detachment leading to phthisis bulbi.

RESULTS: Ruptured globes occurred through the keratotomy incision during activities of daily living (1 eye), assault (1 eye), and sports (1 eye). Two eyes regained a visual acuity of 20/30 or better; 1 eye was lost.

CONCLUSION: Traumatic rupture of the cornea can occur more than 10 years after radial keratotomy.