Six human epikeratophakia lenticules were removed 1 to 23 months after
refractive keratoplasty for aphakia (n = 2) and myopia (n = 4). The m
yopic group included one epi-lenticule treated with ArF-excimer laser
for hyperopia. Reasons for removal were epithelial defect (n = 4), ede
ma of host cornea (n = 1), and overcorrection (n = 1). The epi-lenticu
le stroma showed centrally a regular fibrillar structure with a low ke
ratocyte density. Electron microscopy (n = 1) revealed preserved cytop
lasmic organelles and nuclear appearance. Mononuclear cells were absen
t. Polysaccharide was demonstrated in the stroma. Bowman's layer was n
ormal without breaks. The epithelium had variable thickness. In the pe
ripheral wound region stromal and epithelial irregularities were evide
nt.