The impact of horizontal eye movements versus intraocular pressure on optic nerve head biomechanics: A tridimensional finite element analysis study

It has been proposed that eye movements could be related to glaucoma development. This research aimed to compare the impact of intraocular pressure (IOP) versus horizontal duction on optic nerve head (ONH) strains. Thus, a tridimensional finite element model of the eye including the three tunics of the eye, all of the meninges, and the subarachnoid space (SAS) was developed using a series of medical tests and anatomical data. The ONH was divided into 22 subregions, and the model was subjected to 21 different eye pressures, as well as 24 different degrees of adduction and abduction ranging from 0.5 degrees to 12 degrees. Mean deformations were documented along anatomical axes and in principal directions. Additionally, the impact of tissue stiffness was assessed. The results show no statistically significant differences between the lamina cribrosa (LC) strains due to eye rotation and IOP variation. However, when assessing LC regions some experienced a reduction in principal strains following a 12 degrees duction, while after the IOP reached 12 mmHg, all LC subzones showed an increase in strains. From an anatomical perspective, the effect on the ONH following 12 degrees duction was opposite to that observed after a rise in IOP. Moreover, high strain dispersion inside the ONH subregions was obtained with lateral eye movements, which was not observed with increased IOP and variation. Finally, SAS and orbital fat stiffness strongly influenced ONH strains during eye movements, while SAS stiffness was also influential under ocular hypertension. Even if horizontal eye movements cause large ONH deformations, their biomechanical effect would be markedly distinct from that induced by IOP. It could be predicted that, at least in physiological conditions, their potential to cause axonal injury would not be so relevant. Thus, a causative role in glaucoma does not appear likely. By contrast, an important role of SAS would be expectable.

Automated summary

This study compared the effects of intraocular pressure (IOP) and horizontal eye movements on optic nerve head (ONH) strains by using a tridimensional finite element model. The results showed no significant differences in lamina cribrosa (LC) strains between eye rotation and IOP variation. However, LC strains varied after a 12 degrees duction and after the IOP reached 12 mmHg. Furthermore, lateral eye movements caused significant strain dispersion inside ONH subregions, which was not observed with increased IOP. Tissue stiffness and the subarachnoid space (SAS) also influenced ONH strains during eye movements and ocular hypertension. In conclusion, the biomechanical effects of horizontal eye movements and IOP on the ONH are distinct, suggesting a limited role of eye movements in glaucoma development.