title: Computer simulation of arcuate and radial incisions involving the corneoscleral limbus.
abstract: We have created a computer model of the eye that improves upon previous models with two assumptions: (1) the cornea is considered anisotropic, and (2) the strain tensor is non-linear for large displacements. Values used include those for Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, and three coefficients of anisotropia. A finite element computer program was used to stimulate the behaviour of the eye. Four simulations were done: (1) a full thickness arcuate limbal cataract incision, (2) a partial thickness arcuate corneal relaxing incision, (3) a partial thickness radial incision extending across the limbus, (4) a partial thickness radial incision confined to the cornea. A full thickness corneal arcuate incision for cataract induced more change in corneal shape than a limbal incision. However, the gaping is more important in the limbal incision. Partial thickness arcuate corneal relaxing incisions were found to be more effective with a clear zone 3-5 mm in diameter. Radial incision simulation demonstrated little enhancement of the effect of the incisions when across the limbus.
authors.affiliation: Ophthalmology Service, Hotel-Dieu Hospital, Paris, France.
authors.forename: K D
authors.initials: KD
authors.lastname: Hanna
authors.forename: F E
authors.initials: FE
authors.lastname: Jouve
authors.forename: G O
authors.initials: GO
authors.lastname: Waring
authors.forename: P G
authors.initials: PG
authors.lastname: Ciarlet
mesh_terms: D001251:Astigmatism / Q000601:surgery; D002387:Cataract Extraction; D003198:Computer Simulation; D003315:Cornea / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008433:Mathematics; D008722:Methods; D008954:Models, Biological; D009216:Myopia / Q000601:surgery; D012590:Sclera / Q000601:surgery*; D013314:Stress, Mechanical