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Novel simulation of presbyopia treatments using finite element model animation (FEMA)

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First Author: A.Hipsley USA

Co Author(s):    S. Blemker   K. Knaus   D. Goldberg   G. Thomas   B. Hall        

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To evaluate presbyopia treatments utilizing a Finite Element Model (FEM), translated into a Finite Element Model Animation (FEMA), which incorporates key anatomical structures including the sclera, ciliary muscles, crystalline lens, lens capsule, zonules, and choroid.

Setting:

A novel physics-based computer simulation; Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Virginia. Thornton Hall, P.O. Box 400259, Charlottesville, VA 22904-4259

Methods:

A 3-D model of the eye was constructed using meshing and FEM analysis was performed using advanced multi-physics simulation (AMPS) technology on representative 3D models of ocular structures. The FEM was translated into a FEMA to show 3D dynamic movements using a proprietary method and Autodesk Maya. Intraocular lenses (IOLs) were virtually implanted in the FEM. Simulations of laser scleral microporation (LSM) therapy were also performed in the virtual presbyopic eye.

Results:

Sensitivity analysis of the differences in accommodation between the “young/healthy” and “old/presbyopic” eye identified the age-related changes that contribute most to symptoms of presbyopia. The FEMA demonstrated the dynamic movements of the ciliary muscle, zonules, lens, sclera, choroid, and vitreous during accommodation. Successful treatment simulations were performed using IOL implantation and LSM therapy in a virtual presbyopic eye. Translation of these treatment simulations into the FEMA demonstrate the behavior of IOLs after implantation, and provide insight for future accommodating IOL development, and demonstrate the mechanism of action for LSM therapy.

Conclusions:

The FEM was successfully translated into the FEMA. Virtual surgical and therapeutic simulations of IOL implantation and LSM therapy provide novel insight into their effectiveness to treat presbyopia. The FEM and FEMA also provide novel insight to new technology applications in presbyopia.

Financial Disclosure:

... receives consulting fees, retainer, or contract payments from a company producing, developing or supplying the product or procedure presented