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Postmortem Digital Image Correlation and Finite Element Modeling Demonstrate Posterior Scleral Deformations during
Seongjin Lim1, Changzoo Kim2, Somaye Jafari1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Stein Eye Institute, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 25, 2024
Summary
Optic nerve (ON) traction during eye adduction significantly deforms the sclera, compressing nasal and stretching temporal regions. This ON tethering effect is more pronounced than elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and influenced by ON sheath stiffening.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomechanics
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Understanding scleral biomechanics is crucial for ocular health.
- Optic nerve (ON) traction and intraocular pressure (IOP) are key factors influencing ocular structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate scleral surface deformations under optic nerve (ON) traction during adduction and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP).
Main Methods:
- Postmortem human eyes underwent optic nerve (ON) traction in adduction and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) simulation.
- Three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) and uniaxial tensile testing were employed.
- Eye-specific finite element models (FEMs) were developed to simulate loading conditions.
Main Results:
- ON traction during adduction significantly compressed the nasal sclera and stretched the temporal sclera adjacent to the ON sheath.
- Elevated IOP induced less strain than adduction.
- ON sheath stiffening was observed above 3.4% strain, influencing scleral deformation.
Conclusions:
- Optic nerve (ON) tethering during adduction causes significant scleral deformation, exceeding that of elevated IOP.
- The biomechanical response of the sclera to ON tethering is influenced by the strain-stiffening properties of the ON sheath.
