Abstract: Objective To evaluate the effect of the implantation of lacrimal plug for dry eyes after laser assisted in-situ keratomi leusis(LASIK). Methods Patients with mild to moderate dry eye were included in the study before LASIK. The implantation of VisiPlug was conducted immediately after the surgery. The scores of dryness, foreign body sensation, burning sensation, photophobia, visual fatigue and blurred vision were recorded on preoperative and postoperative 1 week, 1 month and 3 months. Schirmer I test(SIt), break-up time(BUT)and corneal fluorescein staining(FS)were also tested on each time points. Results There were 130 eyes of 65 patients included in the study, including 22 males and 43 females with the average age of 28.32±7.24(18-47)years. The scores of dryness, foreign body sensation, burning sensation, photophobia, visual fatigue and blurred vision were significantly decreased on each time points after the implantation of the lacrimal plug(F value: 125.64, 263.16, 123.22, 9.80, 76.815, 105.19; P value: 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, 0.002, 0.000, 0.000). Schirmer I test(SIt), break up time(BUT)and corneal fluorescein staining(FS)were also significantly improved on each time points(F value: 45.99, 67.87, 49.01; P value: 0.000, 0.000, 0.000). There was no infection, plug in the overflow, local granulation, and the effect of corneal flap healing. Conclusion Lacrimal plug could be effective and safe in the management of dry eyes after refractive surgery.

Key words: Dry eye, Lacrimal plug, Laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis