The optic nerve head as a biomechanical structure: initial finite element modeling.

Abstract

Initial finite element models show that IOP-related stress within the load-bearing connective tissues of the optic nerve head is substantial even at low levels of IOP. Although the data suggest that scleral canal size and shape and scleral thickness are principal determinants of the magnitude of IOP-related stress within the optic nerve head, models that incorporate physiologic scleral canal and laminar geometries, a more refined finite element model meshwork, and nonisotropic material properties will be required to confirm these results.