Regional elastic performance of the human cornea

摘要: Abstract The regional mechanical performance of the cornea and limbus was studied in vitro by pressure loading 18 intact human eyes. pressure-induced (2-100 mmHg) meridional circumferential tangential strains epi- endothelial side were measured at centre, para-centre, periphery limbus. Strains computed from digital measures distances between tiny mercury droplet markers fixed on corneal surfaces. Corresponding in-plane membrane stresses calculated measurements radius curvature thickness four regions. Young's moduli elasticity for each region direction assuming orthotropic elastic behaviour stroma. A power function used to fit non-linear stress-strain relationships. smallest paracentre periphery, largest varied less regions with para-centre straining most. In direction, modulus highest central para-central regions, whereas found This study supports notation circumferentially orientated reinforcing structures limbal tissue. stiffer compared suggesting a meridionally reinforcement parts cornea. These findings may have important implications modelling keratorefractive procedures.