Background: Corneal refractive surgery has shown remarkable progress during the two last decades, with fast-growing updates in operative techniques, devices, and instrumentation. However, laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) remains the most common corneal refractive procedure. Flap creation is considered as the most critical step during LASIK eye surgery. Objective: This article is designed to review the evolution of microkeratomes in creation of the flap in laser in situ keratomileusis. Methods: This article was performed based on a literature review and Internet search through scientific databasis such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Results: The literature on flap creation technology addresses the technical and physical aspects of mechanical microkeratomes including types, characteristics and comercially available products on the market. Conclusion: The conclusion on this forum aims to help understand the benefits of microkeratome evolution for the flap creation in LASIK, with focus on better patient counseling if microkeratome is chosen for the flap creation, choosing the right individual aproach for every patient.
Key words: Cornea, refractive surgery, LASIK, mechanical microkeratome.
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