1
|
Alexandrovskaya YM, Kasianenko EM, Sovetsky AA, Matveyev AL, Atyakshin DA, Patsap OI, Ignatiuk MA, Volodkin AV, Zaitsev VY. Optical coherence elastography with osmotically induced strains: Preliminary demonstration for express detection of cartilage degradation. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2024; 17:e202400016. [PMID: 38702959 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202400016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Optical coherence elastography (OCE) demonstrated impressive abilities for diagnosing tissue types/states using differences in their biomechanics. Usually, OCE visualizes tissue deformation induced by some additional stimulus (e.g., contact compression or auxiliary elastic-wave excitation). We propose a new variant of OCE with osmotically induced straining (OIS-OCE) and demonstrate its application to assess various stages of proteoglycan content degradation in cartilage. The information-bearing signatures in OIS-OCE are the magnitude and rate of strains caused by the application of osmotically active solutions onto the sample surface. OCE examination of the induced strains does not require special tissue preparation, the osmotic stimulation is highly reproducible, and strains are observed in noncontact mode. Several minutes suffice to obtain a conclusion. These features are promising for intraoperative method usage when express assessment of tissue state is required during surgical operations. The "waterfall" images demonstrate the development of cumulative osmotic strains in control and degraded cartilage samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ekaterina M Kasianenko
- A.V. Gaponov-Grekhov Institute of Applied Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
- National Research Center Kurchatov Institute, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander A Sovetsky
- A.V. Gaponov-Grekhov Institute of Applied Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Alexander L Matveyev
- A.V. Gaponov-Grekhov Institute of Applied Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Dmitry A Atyakshin
- Scientific and Educational Resource Center "Molecular Morphology", RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga I Patsap
- Scientific and Educational Resource Center "Molecular Morphology", RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Mikhail A Ignatiuk
- Scientific and Educational Resource Center "Molecular Morphology", RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Artem V Volodkin
- Scientific and Educational Resource Center "Molecular Morphology", RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladimir Y Zaitsev
- A.V. Gaponov-Grekhov Institute of Applied Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tang J, Lin Z, Liu X, Li B, Wu X, Lv J, Qi X, Lin S, Dai C, Li T. Analyzing the changing trend of corneal biomechanical properties under different influencing factors in T2DM patients. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8160. [PMID: 38589521 PMCID: PMC11001873 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59005-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
To analyze the changing trend of CH and CRF values under different influencing factors in T2DM patients. A total of 650 patients with T2DM were included. We discovered that the course of T2DM, smoking history, BMI, and FBG, DR, HbA1c, TC, TG, and LDL-C levels were common risk factors for T2DM, while HDL-C levels were a protective factor. Analyzing the CH and CRF values according to the course of diabetes, we discovered that as T2DM continued to persist, the values of CH and CRF gradually decreased. Moreover, with the increase in FBG levels and the accumulation of HbA1c, the values of CH and CRF gradually decreased. In addition, in patients with HbA1c (%) > 12, the values of CH and CRF decreased the most, falling by 1.85 ± 0.33 mmHg and 1.28 ± 0.69 mmHg, respectively. Compared with the non-DR group, the CH and CRF values gradually decreased in the mild-NPDR, moderate-NPDR, severe-NPDR and PDR groups, with the lowest CH and CRF values in the PDR group. In patients with T2DM, early measurement of corneal biomechanical properties to evaluate the change trend of CH and CRF values in different situations will help to identify and prevent diabetic keratopathy in a timely manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Tang
- Department of Endocrinology, Ziyang Central Hospital, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhiwu Lin
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Ziyang Central Hospital, Sichuan, China
| | - Xingde Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ziyang Central Hospital, Sichuan, China
| | - Biao Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ziyang Central Hospital, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoli Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ziyang Central Hospital, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing Lv
- Department of Orthopedics, Ziyang Central Hospital, Sichuan, China
| | - Xing Qi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Ziyang Central Hospital, Sichuan, China
| | - Sheng Lin
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Ziyang Central Hospital, Sichuan, China
| | - Chuanqiang Dai
- Department of Orthopedics, Ziyang Central Hospital, Sichuan, China.
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ziyang Central Hospital, Sichuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang D, Zhang H, Li L. [Characterization of rabbit corneal biomechanical properties after corneal refractive surgery based on rapid loading-unloading uniaxial tensile test]. SHENG WU YI XUE GONG CHENG XUE ZA ZHI = JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING = SHENGWU YIXUE GONGCHENGXUE ZAZHI 2024; 41:136-143. [PMID: 38403614 PMCID: PMC10894745 DOI: 10.7507/1001-5515.202306041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
In order to understand how the biomechanical properties of rabbit cornea change over time after corneal ablation, 21 healthy adult rabbits were used in this study, with the left eye as experimental side and the right eye as the control side. Firstly, a lamellar knife was used to remove a portion of the anterior corneal surface tissue (30%~50% of the original corneal thickness) from the left eye of each rabbit, as an animal model simulating corneal refractive surgery. Secondly, postoperative experimental rabbits were kept for one, three, or six months until being euthanized. Strip specimens were produced using their corneas in vitro to perform a uniaxial tensile test with an average loading-unloading rate of approximately 0.16 mm/s. Finally, the visco-hyperelastic material constitutive model was used to fit the data. The results showed that there was a significant difference in the viscoelastic parameters of the corneas between the experimental and the control eyes at the first and third postoperative months. There was a difference in tangential modulus between the experimental and the control eyes at strain levels of 0.02 and 0.05 at the third postoperative month. There was no significant difference in biomechanical parameters between the experimental and the control eyes at the sixth postoperative month. These results indicate that compared with the control eyes, the biomechanical properties of the experimental eyes vary over postoperative time. At the third postoperative month, the ratio of corneal tangential modulus between the experimental and the control eyes significantly increased, and then decreased. This work lays a preliminary foundation for understanding the biomechanical properties of the cornea after corneal refractive surgery based on rapid testing data obtained clinically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Biomechanics in Clinical Application, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, P. R. China
- School of Radiology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, Shandong 271016, P. R. China
| | - Haixia Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Biomechanics in Clinical Application, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, P. R. China
| | - Lin Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Biomechanics in Clinical Application, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ambrósio R, Salomão MQ, Barros L, da Fonseca Filho JBR, Guedes J, Neto A, Machado AP, Lopes BT, Sena N, Esporcatte LPG. Multimodal diagnostics for keratoconus and ectatic corneal diseases: a paradigm shift. EYE AND VISION (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 10:45. [PMID: 37919821 PMCID: PMC10623885 DOI: 10.1186/s40662-023-00363-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Different diagnostic approaches for ectatic corneal diseases (ECD) include screening, diagnosis confirmation, classification of the ECD type, severity staging, prognostic evaluation, and clinical follow-up. The comprehensive assessment must start with a directed clinical history. However, multimodal imaging tools, including Placido-disk topography, Scheimpflug three-dimensional (3D) tomography, corneal biomechanical evaluations, and layered (or segmental) tomography with epithelial thickness by optical coherence tomography (OCT), or digital very high-frequency ultrasound (dVHF-US) serve as fundamental complementary exams for measuring different characteristics of the cornea. Also, ocular wavefront analysis, axial length measurements, corneal specular or confocal microscopy, and genetic or molecular biology tests are relevant for clinical decisions. Artificial intelligence enhances interpretation and enables combining such a plethora of data, boosting accuracy and facilitating clinical decisions. The applications of diagnostic information for individualized treatments became relevant concerning the therapeutic refractive procedures that emerged as alternatives to keratoplasty. The first paradigm shift concerns the surgical management of patients with ECD with different techniques, such as crosslinking and intrastromal corneal ring segments. A second paradigm shift involved the quest for identifying patients at higher risk of progressive iatrogenic ectasia after elective refractive corrections on the cornea. Beyond augmenting the sensitivity to detect very mild (subclinical or fruste) forms of ECD, ectasia risk assessment evolved to characterize the inherent susceptibility for ectasia development and progression. Furthermore, ectasia risk is also related to environmental factors, including eye rubbing and the relational impact of the surgical procedure on the cornea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renato Ambrósio
- Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Rio de Janeiro Corneal Tomography and Biomechanics Study Group, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Rio Vision Hospital, Rua Prudente de Moraes, 1276, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22420-042, Brazil.
- Brazilian Study Group of Artificial Intelligence and Corneal Analysis - BrAIN, Rio de Janeiro & Maceió, Brazil.
| | - Marcella Q Salomão
- Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Corneal Tomography and Biomechanics Study Group, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rio Vision Hospital, Rua Prudente de Moraes, 1276, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22420-042, Brazil
- Brazilian Study Group of Artificial Intelligence and Corneal Analysis - BrAIN, Rio de Janeiro & Maceió, Brazil
- Benjamin Constant Institute, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lorena Barros
- Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Corneal Tomography and Biomechanics Study Group, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rio Vision Hospital, Rua Prudente de Moraes, 1276, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22420-042, Brazil
| | - João Batista R da Fonseca Filho
- Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Corneal Tomography and Biomechanics Study Group, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rio Vision Hospital, Rua Prudente de Moraes, 1276, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22420-042, Brazil
| | - Jaime Guedes
- Rio de Janeiro Corneal Tomography and Biomechanics Study Group, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Neto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Corneal Tomography and Biomechanics Study Group, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Aydano P Machado
- Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Corneal Tomography and Biomechanics Study Group, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Brazilian Study Group of Artificial Intelligence and Corneal Analysis - BrAIN, Rio de Janeiro & Maceió, Brazil
- Computing Institute, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Brazil
| | - Bernardo T Lopes
- Rio de Janeiro Corneal Tomography and Biomechanics Study Group, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Brazilian Study Group of Artificial Intelligence and Corneal Analysis - BrAIN, Rio de Janeiro & Maceió, Brazil
- Department of Ophthalmology, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, L12 2AP, UK
| | - Nelson Sena
- Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Corneal Tomography and Biomechanics Study Group, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rio Vision Hospital, Rua Prudente de Moraes, 1276, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22420-042, Brazil
| | - Louise Pellegrino Gomes Esporcatte
- Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Corneal Tomography and Biomechanics Study Group, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rio Vision Hospital, Rua Prudente de Moraes, 1276, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22420-042, Brazil
- Brazilian Study Group of Artificial Intelligence and Corneal Analysis - BrAIN, Rio de Janeiro & Maceió, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cabeza Gil I, Tahsini V, Kling S. Viscoelastic properties of porcine lenses using optical coherence elastography and inverse finite element analysis. Exp Eye Res 2023:109558. [PMID: 37385534 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
The mechanical properties of the crystalline lens are crucial in determining the changes in lens shape that occur during the accommodation process and are also a major factor in the development of the two most prevalent age-related diseases of the lens, presbyopia and cataracts. However, a comprehensive understanding of these properties is currently lacking. Previous methods for characterizing the mechanical properties of the lens have been limited by the amount of data that could be collected during each test and the lack of complex material modeling. These limitations were mainly caused by the lack of imaging techniques that can provide data for the entire crystalline lens and the need for more complex models to describe the non-linear behavior of the lens. To address these issues, we characterized the mechanical properties of 13 porcine lenses during an ex vivo micro-controlled-displacement compression experiment using optical coherence elastography (OCE) and inverse finite element analysis (iFEA). OCE allowed us to quantify the internal strain distribution of the lens and differentiate between the different parts of the lens, while iFEA enabled us to implement an advanced material model to characterize the viscoelasticity of the lens nucleus and the relative stiffness gradient in the lens. Our findings revealed a pronounced and rapid viscoelastic behavior in the lens nucleus (g1 = 0.39 ± 0.13, τ1 = 5.01 ± 2.31 s) and identified the lens nucleus as the stiffest region, with a stiffness 4.42 ± 1.20 times greater than the anterior cortex and 3.47 ± 0.82 times greater than the posterior cortex. However, due to the complex nature of lens properties, it may be necessary to employ multiple tests simultaneously for a more comprehensive understanding of the crystalline lens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iulen Cabeza Gil
- Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (i3A), University of Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Vahoura Tahsini
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Kling
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Switzerland; Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lan G, Twa MD, Song C, Feng J, Huang Y, Xu J, Qin J, An L, Wei X. In vivo corneal elastography: A topical review of challenges and opportunities. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2023; 21:2664-2687. [PMID: 37181662 PMCID: PMC10173410 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical measurement of corneal biomechanics can aid in the early diagnosis, progression tracking, and treatment evaluation of ocular diseases. Over the past two decades, interdisciplinary collaborations between investigators in optical engineering, analytical biomechanical modeling, and clinical research has expanded our knowledge of corneal biomechanics. These advances have led to innovations in testing methods (ex vivo, and recently, in vivo) across multiple spatial and strain scales. However, in vivo measurement of corneal biomechanics remains a long-standing challenge and is currently an active area of research. Here, we review the existing and emerging approaches for in vivo corneal biomechanics evaluation, which include corneal applanation methods, such as ocular response analyzer (ORA) and corneal visualization Scheimpflug technology (Corvis ST), Brillouin microscopy, and elastography methods, and the emerging field of optical coherence elastography (OCE). We describe the fundamental concepts, analytical methods, and current clinical status for each of these methods. Finally, we discuss open questions for the current state of in vivo biomechanics assessment techniques and requirements for wider use that will further broaden our understanding of corneal biomechanics for the detection and management of ocular diseases, and improve the safety and efficacy of future clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gongpu Lan
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Intelligent Micro-Nano Optoelectronic Technology Joint Laboratory, School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
- Weiren Meditech Co., Ltd., Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Michael D Twa
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, United States
| | - Chengjin Song
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Intelligent Micro-Nano Optoelectronic Technology Joint Laboratory, School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - JinPing Feng
- Institute of Engineering and Technology, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei 437100, China
| | - Yanping Huang
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Intelligent Micro-Nano Optoelectronic Technology Joint Laboratory, School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
- Weiren Meditech Co., Ltd., Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Jingjiang Xu
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Intelligent Micro-Nano Optoelectronic Technology Joint Laboratory, School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
- Weiren Meditech Co., Ltd., Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Jia Qin
- Weiren Meditech Co., Ltd., Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Lin An
- Weiren Meditech Co., Ltd., Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Xunbin Wei
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Peking University, Beijing 100081, China
- International Cancer Institute, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lu NJ, Hafezi F, Torres-Netto EA, Assaf JF, Aslanides IM, Awwad ST, Chen S, Cui LL, Koppen C. Effect of fluence levels on prophylactic corneal cross-linking for laser in situ keratomileusis and transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy. Acta Ophthalmol 2023; 101:e185-e196. [PMID: 36794626 DOI: 10.1111/aos.15230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of various fluence levels on prophylactic corneal cross-linking (CXL) combined with femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK-Xtra) or transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (TransPRK-Xtra) on biomechanics, demarcation line (DL), and stromal haze. METHODS Prospective analysis where two prophylactic CXL protocols (lower/higher fluence [LF/HF]: 30 mw/cm2 , 60/80 s, 1.8/2.4 J/cm2 ) were performed as part of either an FS-LASIK-Xtra or TransPRK-Xtra procedure. Data were collected preoperatively and at 1 week and 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Main outcome measures were (1) dynamic corneal response parameters and the stress-strain index (SSI) from Corvis, (2) actual DL depth (ADL), and (3) stromal haze on OCT images analysed by a machine learning algorithm. RESULTS Eighty-six eyes from 86 patients underwent FS-LASIK-Xtra-HF (21 eyes), FS-LASIK-Xtra-LF (21 eyes), TransPRK-Xtra-HF (23 eyes), and TransPRK-Xtra-LF (21 eyes). SSI increased similarly by around 15% in all groups 6 months postoperatively (p = 0.155). All other corneal biomechanical parameters were statistically significant worsening postoperatively, but the change was similar in all groups. At 1 month postoperatively, there was no statistical difference in mean ADL among four groups (p = 0.613), mean stromal haze was similar between the two FS-LASIK-Xtra groups, but higher in the TransPRK-Xtra-HF group compared with the TransPRK-Xtra-LF group. CONCLUSIONS FS-LASIK-Xtra and TransPRK-Xtra lead to a similar ADL and improve SSI equally. Lower fluence prophylactic CXL might be recommended as it achieves similar mean ADL with potentially less induced stromal haze, especially in TransPRK. The clinical relevance and applicability of such protocols remains to be assessed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan-Ji Lu
- Eye Hospital and School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.,Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium.,ELZA Institute, Dietikon, Switzerland
| | - Farhad Hafezi
- Eye Hospital and School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,ELZA Institute, Dietikon, Switzerland.,Laboratory of Ocular Cell Biology, Center for Applied Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Emilio A Torres-Netto
- ELZA Institute, Dietikon, Switzerland.,Laboratory of Ocular Cell Biology, Center for Applied Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jad F Assaf
- The American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ioannis M Aslanides
- Eye Hospital and School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Emmetropia Mediterranean Eye Institute, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Shady T Awwad
- The American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Shihao Chen
- Eye Hospital and School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Le-Le Cui
- Eye Hospital and School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Carina Koppen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.,Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lopes BT, Elsheikh A. In Vivo Corneal Stiffness Mapping by the Stress-Strain Index Maps and Brillouin Microscopy. Curr Eye Res 2023; 48:114-120. [PMID: 35634717 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2022.2081979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The study of corneal stiffness in vivo has numerous clinical applications such as the measurement of intraocular pressure, the preoperative screening for iatrogenic ectasia after laser vision correction surgery and the diagnosis and treatment of corneal ectatic diseases such as keratoconus. The localised aspect of the microstructure deterioration in keratoconus leading to local biomechanical softening, corneal bulging, irregular astigmatism and ultimately loss of vision boosted the need to map the corneal stiffness to identify the regional biomechanical failure. Currently, two methods to map the corneal stiffness in vivo are integrated into devices that are either already commercially available or about to be commercialised: the stress-strain index (SSI) maps and the Brillouin Microscopy (BM). The former method produces 2D map of stiffness across the corneal surface, developed through numerical simulations using the corneal shape, its microstructure content, and the deformation behaviour under air-puff excitation. It estimates the whole stress-strain behaviour, making it possible to obtain the material tangent modulus under different intraocular pressure levels. On the other hand, BM produces a 3D map of the corneal longitudinal modulus across the corneal surface and thickness. It uses a low-power near-infrared laser beam and through a spectral analysis of the returned signal, it assesses the mechanical compressibility of the tissue as measured by the longitudinal modulus. In this paper, these two techniques are reviewed, and their advantages and limitations discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo T Lopes
- School of Engineering, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ahmed Elsheikh
- School of Engineering, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abdshahzadeh H, Abrishamchi R, Aydemir ME, Hafezi N, Hillen M, Torres-Netto EA, Lu NJ, Hafezi F. Repeated application of riboflavin during corneal cross-linking does not improve the biomechanical stiffening effect ex vivo. Exp Eye Res 2022; 224:109267. [PMID: 36167218 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate whether repeated application of riboflavin during corneal cross-linking (CXL) has an impact on the corneal biomechanical strength in ex-vivo porcine corneas. DESIGN Laboratory investigation. METHODS Sixty-six porcine corneas with intact epithelium were divided into three groups and analyzed. All corneas were pre-soaked with an iso-osmolar solution of 0.1% riboflavin in a phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) solution ("riboflavin solution"). Then, the corneas in Groups 1 and 2 were irradiated with a standard epi-off CXL (S-CXL) UV-A irradiation protocol (3 mW/cm2 for 30 min); while the corneas in Group 3 were not irradiated and served as control. During irradiation, Group 1 (CXL-PBS-Ribo) received repeated riboflavin solution application while corneas in Group 2 (CXL-PBS) received only repeated iso-osmolar PBS solution. Immediately after the procedure, 5-mm wide corneal strips were prepared, and elastic modulus was calculated to characterize biomechanical properties. RESULTS Significant differences in stress-strain extensiometry were found between two cross-linked groups with control group (P = 0.005 and 0.002, respectively). No significant difference was observed in the normalized stiffening effect between Groups 1 and 2 (P = 0.715). CONCLUSIONS The repeated application of riboflavin solution during UV-A irradiation does not affect the corneal biomechanical properties achieved with standard epi-off CXL. Riboflavin application during CXL may be omitted without altering the biomechanical stiffening induced by the procedure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hormoz Abdshahzadeh
- Laboratory for Ocular Cell Biology, Center for Applied Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; ELZA Institute, Dietikon, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Reyhaneh Abrishamchi
- Laboratory for Ocular Cell Biology, Center for Applied Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; ELZA Institute, Dietikon, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Nikki Hafezi
- ELZA Institute, Dietikon, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | | | - Emilio A Torres-Netto
- Laboratory for Ocular Cell Biology, Center for Applied Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; ELZA Institute, Dietikon, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nan-Ji Lu
- ELZA Institute, Dietikon, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Farhad Hafezi
- Laboratory for Ocular Cell Biology, Center for Applied Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; ELZA Institute, Dietikon, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; USC Roski Eye Institute, USC Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Torres-Netto EA, Kling S. Corneal Strain Induced by Intracorneal Ring Segment Implantation Visualized With Optical Coherence Elastography. J Refract Surg 2022; 38:210-216. [PMID: 35275004 DOI: 10.3928/1081597x-20211214-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To record the axial strain field in the cornea directly after creating a stromal tunnel and implanting an intracorneal ring segment (ICRS). METHODS Freshly enucleated porcine eyes were obtained and assigned to either ICRS implantation, tunnel creation only, or virgin control groups. Immediately after manual tunnel creation and ICRS positioning, the entire eye globe was mounted on a customized holder and intraocular pressure (IOP) was adjusted to 15 mm Hg. Then, IOP was inreased to 20 mm Hg, in steps of 1 mm Hg. At each step, an optical coherence tomography volume scan was recorded. Displacements between subsequent scans were retrieved using a vector-based phase difference method. The induced corneal strain direction was determined by taking the axial gradient. In addition, corneal surface was detected and sagittal curvature maps computed. RESULTS Corneal tissue presented a localized compressive strain in the direct vicinity of the stromal tunnel, which was independent of IOP change. The central and peripheral (exterior to the ICRS) cornea demonstrated compressive strains on IOP increase, and tensile strains on IOP decrease. ICRS implantation induced an annular-shaped tensile strain at its inner border, particularly during IOP increase. The compressive strains close to the tunnel remained after ICRS implantation. Corneal curvature changes were concentrated on regions where strain was induced. CONCLUSIONS ICRS implantation induces localized strains in the regions subjected to refractive changes, suggesting that corneal strain and curvature are directly related. Studying corneal strain in response to surgical intervention may provide new insights on underlying working principles. [J Refract Surg. 2022;38(3):210-216.].
Collapse
|
11
|
Hafezi NL, Hafezi F. Developing Affordable, Portable and Simplistic Diagnostic Sensors to Improve Access to Care. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:1181. [PMID: 35161926 PMCID: PMC8840539 DOI: 10.3390/s22031181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Ophthalmology is a highly technical specialty, especially in the area of diagnostic equipment. While the field is innovative, the access to cutting-edge technology is limited with reference to the global population. A significant way to improve overall healthcare is to understand the needs and possibilities of all possible consumers when developing sophisticated and accurate medical devices. The Smartphone-based Keratograph (SBK), is an example of a new project that uses real world feedback, addresses an unmet medical need, and implements commercially available components to create a device that is affordable, portable and simplistic to operate. The long-term goal of the SBK is to collect data from users for supervised machine-learning. This machine-learning aspect will ultimately aid in the development of an artificial intelligence device to enable even earlier detection of keratoconus, especially in children and adolescents. Again, the ultimate goal of any medical device should be to improve patient care, and to make a significant improvement on vision healthcare for the global population, providing access to this technology is essential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikki L. Hafezi
- Light for Sight Foundation, 8953 Zurich, Switzerland;
- GroupAdvance Consulting, 6300 Zug, Switzerland
- ELZA Institute AG, 8953 Zurich, Switzerland
- EMAGine AG, 6300 Zug, Switzerland
| | - Farhad Hafezi
- Light for Sight Foundation, 8953 Zurich, Switzerland;
- ELZA Institute AG, 8953 Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Spiru B, Torres-Netto EA, Kling S, Hafezi F, Sekundo W. Hyperopic SMILE Versus FS-LASIK: A Biomechanical Comparison in Human Fellow Corneas. J Refract Surg 2021; 37:810-815. [PMID: 34914557 DOI: 10.3928/1081597x-20210830-02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the biomechanical properties of ex vivo human paired corneas after hyperopic correction via cap-based versus flap-based laser-assisted refractive surgery. METHODS In this prospective experimental study, 13 pairs of human corneas unsuitable for transplantation were equally divided into two groups. The pachymetry was performed in each eye just before the laser procedure. Corneas from the right eye were treated with small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE), whereas corneas from the left eye of the same donor were treated with femtosecond laser-assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK). All corneas were subjected to a refractive correction of +6.00 diopters (D) sphere with a 6.5-mm zone under a 120-µm cap (SMILE) or a 7-mm zone under a 110-µm flap (FS-LASIK). For two-dimensional biomechanical measurements, the corneoscleral buttons underwent two testing cycles (preconditioning stress-strain curve from 0.03 to 9.0 N and stress-relaxation at 9.0 N during 120 seconds) to analyze the elastic and viscoelastic material properties. The effective elastic modulus was calculated. Statistical analysis was performed with a confidence interval of 95%. RESULTS In stress-strain measurements, the effective elastic modulus was not significantly different (P > .311) between SMILE (13.5 ± 12.8 MPa) and FS-LASIK (7.56 ± 17.9 MPa). In stress-relaxation measurements, the remaining stress was not significantly different (P = .841) between SMILE (124 ± 20 kPa) and FS-LASIK (126 ± 21 kPa). CONCLUSIONS Unlike myopic correction, after hyperopic correction the cap-based procedure (SMILE) and the flap-based technique (FS-LASIK) may be considered equivalent in terms of biomechanical stability when measured experimentally in ex vivo human fellow eye corneas. [J Refract Surg. 2021;37(12):810-815.].
Collapse
|
13
|
García de Oteyza G, Álvarez de Toledo J, Barraquer RI, Kling S. Refractive changes of a new asymmetric intracorneal ring segment with variable thickness and base width: A 2D finite-element model. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257222. [PMID: 34525102 PMCID: PMC8443075 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the local geometric effects of a unilateral intrastromal ring segment with a combined variation of ring thickness and base width in a finite element simulation, and to compare it against the isolated effect of thickness or base width variation alone. METHODS A two-dimensional finite-element model of a transversely isotropic cornea was created assuming either axisymmetric stress or plane strain condition. The model geometry was composed of a three-layered corneal tissue (epithelium, anterior and posterior stroma) fixed at the limbus. The implantation of a triangular-shape asymmetric ring segment with varying ring thickness (150 to 300 μm) and base width (600 to 800 μm) was simulated. Also, changes induced by thickness or base width alone were studied and compared their combined effect in the asymmetric ring segment. Geometrical deformation of the simulated cornea and sagittal curvature were the main parameters of study. RESULTS Increasing ring thickness and base width along the arc of the asymmetric ring segment produced a more pronounced flattening in this part of the ring. The asymmetric design did find a good balance between maximizing corneal flattening at one end and minimizing it at the other end, compared to the isolated effect of ring thickness and width. Ring thickness was the most robust parameter in flattening both, the central and peripheral cornea. CONCLUSION The finite-element model permitted a theoretical study of corneal deformation undergoing implantation of realistic and hypothetical ring geometries. Intracorneal asymmetric ring segments with varying thickness and base width can be a good alternative in corneas with asymmetric keratoconus phenotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo García de Oteyza
- Clínica Oftalmológica García de Oteyza, Barcelona, Spain
- Escuela de Doctorado, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Rafael I. Barraquer
- Centro de Oftalmología Barraquer, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sabine Kling
- Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, OPTIC Team, Computer-assisted Applications in Medicine Group, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lopes BT, Bao F, Wang J, Liu X, Wang L, Abass A, Eliasy A, Elsheikh A. Review of in-vivo characterisation of corneal biomechanics. MEDICINE IN NOVEL TECHNOLOGY AND DEVICES 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medntd.2021.100073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
|
15
|
Contribution of Bowman layer to corneal biomechanics. J Cataract Refract Surg 2021; 47:927-932. [PMID: 33315734 DOI: 10.1097/j.jcrs.0000000000000543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the elastic modulus of thin corneal lamellas using 2D stress-strain extensometry in healthy ex vivo human corneal lamellas with or without the presence of Bowman layer. SETTING Center for Applied Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, University of Zurich, Switzerland; ELZA Institute, Dietikon, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, Philipps University of Marburg, Germany. DESIGN Prospective experimental laboratory study. METHODS Healthy human corneas were stripped of Descemet membrane and the endothelium for Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty. After epithelium removal, corneas were divided into 2 groups. In Group 1, Bowman layer was ablated with an excimer laser (20 μm thick, 10 mm). In Group 2, Bowman layer was left intact. Then, a lamella was cut from the anterior cornea with an automated microkeratome. Elastic and viscoelastic material properties were analyzed by 2D stress-strain extensometry between 0.03 and 0.70 N. RESULTS Twenty-six human corneas were analyzed. The mean lamella thickness was 160 ± 37 μm in corneas with Bowman layer and 155 ± 22 μm in corneas without. No statistically significant differences between flaps with and without Bowman layer were observed in the tangential elastic modulus between 5% and 20% strain (11.5 ± 2.9 kPa vs 10.8 ± 3.7 kPa, P > .278). CONCLUSIONS The presence or absence of Bowman layer did not reveal a measurable difference in corneal stiffness. This may indicate that the removal of Bowman layer during photorefractive keratectomy does not represent a disadvantage to corneal biomechanics.
Collapse
|
16
|
Blackburn BJ, Rollins AM, Dupps WJ. Biomechanics of Ophthalmic Crosslinking. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:8. [PMID: 34328498 PMCID: PMC8327749 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.5.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Crosslinking involves the formation of bonds between polymer chains, such as proteins. In biological tissues, these bonds tend to stiffen the tissue, making it more resistant to mechanical degradation and deformation. In ophthalmology, the crosslinking phenomenon is being increasingly harnessed and explored as a treatment strategy for treating corneal ectasias, keratitis, degenerative myopia, and glaucoma. This review surveys the multitude of exogenous crosslinking strategies reported in the literature, both "light" (involving light energy) and "dark" (involving non-photic chemical processes), and explores their mechanisms, cytotoxicity, and stage of translational development. The spectrum of ophthalmic applications described in the literature is then discussed, with particular attention to proposed therapeutic mechanisms in the cornea and sclera. The mechanical effects of crosslinking are then discussed in the context of their proposed site and scale of action. Biomechanical characterization of the crosslinking effect is needed to more thoroughly address knowledge gaps in this area, and a review of reported methods for biomechanical characterization is presented with an attempt to assess the sensitivity of each method to crosslinking-mediated changes using data from the experimental and clinical literature. Biomechanical measurement methods differ in spatial resolution, mechanical sensitivity, suitability for detecting crosslinking subtypes, and translational readiness and are central to the effort to understand the mechanistic link between crosslinking methods and clinical outcomes of candidate therapies. Data on differences in the biomechanical effect of different crosslinking protocols and their correspondence to clinical outcomes are reviewed, and strategies for leveraging measurement advances predicting clinical outcomes of crosslinking procedures are discussed. Advancing the understanding of ophthalmic crosslinking, its biomechanical underpinnings, and its applications supports the development of next-generation crosslinking procedures that optimize therapeutic effect while reducing complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brecken J. Blackburn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Andrew M. Rollins
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - William J. Dupps
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Quince Z, Alonso-Caneiro D, Read SA, Collins MJ. Static compression optical coherence elastography to measure the mechanical properties of soft contact lenses. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2021; 12:1821-1833. [PMID: 33996200 PMCID: PMC8086445 DOI: 10.1364/boe.419344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In this study, a novel method was developed for estimating the elastic modulus (Young's modulus) of soft contact lens materials using static compression optical coherence elastography. Using a commercially available spectral domain optical coherence tomography instrument, an experimental setup was developed to image a soft contact lens sample before and during compression with a known applied force, from which the lens material's mechanical properties can be derived. A semi-automatic segmentation method using graph-search theory and dynamic processing was used to trace the lens boundaries and to determine key structural changes within the images. To validate the method, five soft contact lens materials with a range of known elastic moduli and water contents were tested. The proposed method was successful in estimating the Young's modulus in the five different soft contact lens materials. It was demonstrated that the method provides highly repeatable measurements, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of >95%. The Young's modulus results were compared to published manufacturer data with no significant difference for four out of the five materials (p > 0.05). These results demonstrate that a static compression optical coherence tomography method can reliably measure the elastic modulus of soft contact lenses. This provides a methodology that can be used to explore in vitro contact lens mechanical properties, but more importantly, may also be extended to study the mechanical characteristics of in vivo or ex vivo tissue, provided that they can be imaged using OCT.
Collapse
|
18
|
Kwok S, Clayson K, Hazen N, Pan X, Ma Y, Hendershot AJ, Liu J. Heartbeat-Induced Corneal Axial Displacement and Strain Measured by High Frequency Ultrasound Elastography in Human Volunteers. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 9:33. [PMID: 33384887 PMCID: PMC7757631 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.13.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to establish in vivo data acquisition and processing protocols for repeatable measurements of heartbeat-induced corneal displacements and strains in human eyes, using a high-frequency ultrasound elastography method, termed ocular pulse elastography (OPE). Methods Twenty-four volunteers with no known ocular diseases were recruited for this study. Intraocular pressure (IOP) and ocular pulse amplitude (OPA) were measured using a PASCAL Dynamic Contour Tonometer (DCT). An in vivo OPE protocol was developed to measure heartbeat-induced corneal displacements. Videos of the central 5.7 mm of the cornea were acquired using a 50-MHz ultrasound probe at 128 frames per second. The radiofrequency data of 1000 frames were analyzed using an ultrasound speckle tracking algorithm to calculate corneal displacements and quantify spectral and temporal characteristics. The intrasession and intersession repeatability of OPE- and DCT-measured parameters were also analyzed. Results The in vivo OPE protocol and setup were successful in tracking heartbeat-induced corneal motion using high-frequency ultrasound. Corneal axial displacements showed a strong cardiac rhythm, with good intrasession and intersession repeatability, and high interocular symmetry. Corneal strain was calculated in two eyes of two subjects, showing substantially different responses. Conclusions We demonstrated the feasibility of high-frequency ultrasound elastography for noninvasive in vivo measurement of the cornea's biomechanical responses to the intrinsic ocular pulse. The high intrasession and intersession repeatability suggested a robust implementation of this technique to the in vivo setting. Translational Relevance OPE may offer a useful tool for clinical biomechanical evaluation of the cornea by quantifying its response to the intrinsic pulsation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sunny Kwok
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Keyton Clayson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Biophysics Interdisciplinary Group, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Nicholas Hazen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Biophysics Interdisciplinary Group, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Xueliang Pan
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Yanhui Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Andrew J Hendershot
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Biophysics Interdisciplinary Group, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|