[Qualitative analysis of the elasticity of the bovine cornea by holographic interferometry]

Double-exposure holographic interferometry is used for deformation analysis of the surface of bovine corneas subjected to intraocular pressure increase. Reproducible individual fringe patterns are recorded for an intraocular pressure of 1340 Pa and subsequent pressure changes of 20, 40 and 80 Pa, respectively. These interference fringes characterize loci of equal displacement. In spite of interindividual variations of the central fringe pattern some basic types can be differentiated: round, oval, drop-like, double-centers, symmetrical as well as unsymmetrical and irregular forms. The peripheral fringe patterns of the cornea can be described by 3 basic types, even taking into account individual variations: circular, circular with an irregular component and irregular. The precision of the method allows to visualize minute local elasticity differences. Results of these investigations do not support the assumption, that the center of the cornea has a higher elasticity than peripheral regions in general. These elasticity differences between central and peripheral areas vary between individual corneas for small intraocular pressure changes at a basic pressure of ca. 10 mm Hg (1340 Pa).