Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Material Properties and Tissue Geometry in Ophthalmology

Abstract

Ophthalmologists deal with solid tissues such as cornea, sclera, retina, choroid, iris, crystalline lens, nerve, muscle, fat and bone and also with fluids such as aqueous humour, and blood. Solid and liquid materials have inherent physical properties related to their components like elasticity, viscosity and density. Such properties determine the materials’ interaction and behaviour. Computation of the extent of displacement, deformation and strain caused by shear, compressive, or tensile forces on materials of inherent properties and simple dimensions like squares or circles can be achieved through simple mathematical computations. The computation, however, becomes complicated when the dimensions as well as the properties of the material are more complex. Therefore for complex problems, the science of finite element analysis is used. Finite element analysis exploits material properties and dimensions to solve complex problems in the universe using mathematical approaches [1]. Finite element analysis divides complex dimensions into smaller squares, triangles or hexagons to build finite element models that could be analysed using numerical methods. Finite element analysis also allows detailed visualisation of where the structure bends or twists, and indicates the distribution of stresses and displacements. In ophthalmology, this science has helped in the provision of mathematical solutions to surgical and biological problems and to predict the optimum surgical manoeuvres to achieve certain goals [2]. In this section we will describe the basics of finite element method and its applications in ophthalmology.