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Eye growth in the aphakic newborn rabbit
U Kugelberg1, C Zetterström, B Lundgren
1Department of Ophthalmology, S:t Erik Eye Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
|April 1, 1996
Summary
Removing the crystalline lens in newborn rabbits significantly reduced eye growth. This study investigated the impact of early lensectomy on ocular development and growth parameters in young rabbits.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Developmental Biology
- Animal Models
Background:
- The crystalline lens plays a crucial role in ocular development and refractive error.
- Understanding factors influencing eye growth is vital for addressing visual impairments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of unilateral lensectomy on eye growth in newborn rabbits.
- To assess changes in axial length, corneal parameters, intraocular pressure, and refraction post-lensectomy.
Main Methods:
- Unilateral lensectomy was performed on 18 newborn rabbits.
- Axial length, corneal diameter/thickness, intraocular pressure (IOP), and refraction were measured preoperatively and postoperatively.
- After-cataract wet mass was measured at 3 months.
Main Results:
- Lensectomy significantly reduced axial length and corneal diameter compared to the control eye in most rabbits.
- No significant differences in IOP or corneal thickness were observed between eyes.
- Operated eyes became hyperopic, with a myopic shift noted at 3 months; unoperated eyes showed a myopic shift.
Conclusions:
- Early removal of the rabbit crystalline lens inhibits overall eye growth.
- Lensectomy impacts refractive development, leading to hyperopia and subsequent myopic shift.