Numerical simulation of mechanical properties of epiretinal membrane peeling

An epiretinal membrane (ERM) is a fibrocellular proliferation on the inner surface of the retina causing blurred and distorted central vision. Surgery is the only effective method for ERM removal. This paper investigated the mechanical properties of ERM peeling using the finite element (FE) method. A FE model of ERM formation on the retina surface was constructed. The failure criterion was applied to the attachment pegs to represent the adhesive force between the ERM and retina. The simulation results were consistent with the experimental data in published research. The maximum peeling force was 4.1 mN at a peeling velocity of 2 mm/s and an angle of 30°. The peeling force was minimum at the peeling angle of 45° and increased with the increase in peeling velocity and Young's modulus of the membrane. The outcome of this paper can improve the safety and efficiency of ERM removal.