Histologic and Ultrastructural Findings in Human Corneas After Successful Laser In Situ Keratomileusis

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Abstract
WOUND HEALING following laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) has been studied in animal models1,2 and clinically in human corneas.3 The changes caused by the wound healing process after LASIK have been compared with those that occur after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).3-6 The Bowman layer is disrupted by PRK and the resulting corneal haze ensues secondary to the wound repair response.7-11 The Bowman layer is preserved, however, after LASIK in humans. The role of the Bowman layer in corneal wound healing is under investigation.12,13 Histologic and ultrastructural studies in rabbits have shown parallel collagen lamellae in the flap bed and disarranged collagen alignment with associated reactive keratocytes at the keratectomy wound margin in rabbit corneas after LASIK.2,4,5 The few reports of ultrastructural changes in human corneas following LASIK are in corneal button specimens after penetrating keratoplasty14-16 or in blind phthisical eyes in which LASIK was performed just prior to enucleation.17