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M R Bryant

Publications and source records attributed to M R Bryant.

24 records · Page 2Linked to original sources

Mathematical models of picosecond laser keratomileusis for high myopia.

PURPOSE: Picosecond laser keratomileusis (PLK) is a refractive surgical procedure in which an intrastromal lenticle is created using the Nd:YLF picosecond laser and removed by lifting the anterior flap in the cornea. The purpose of this study was to assess the predictability of picosecond laser keratomileusis for high myopia. METHODS: The results from a recent clinical series of non-sighted patients who had undergone picosecond laser keratomileusis with the Nd:YLF picosecond laser were retrospectively simulated with two mathematical models. In one model, the change in corneal curvature resulting from the collapse of a lenticular intrastromal cavity was predicted from a geometric analysis. A second model was developed using the finite element method. The results of both predictive models were compared to the clinical results at 1 and 6 months following surgery. RESULTS: An average -13.30 D of flattening (range, -6.80 to -20.50 D) was measured at 6 months. The geometric model predicted an average correction of -23.10 D (range, -18.00 to -34.00 D), whereas the finite element model predicted an average curvature change of -17.40 D (range, -14.50 to -22.50 D). An average decrease in central pachymetry of 91 microm was measured at 6 months, as compared to a predicted decrease in thickness of 112 microm. CONCLUSIONS: The outcome of picosecond laser keratomileusis for high myopia predicted using a finite element based model shows greater change in the corneal curvature and corneal thickness compared to clinical results. The relatively thick lenticules that are removed for high myopia cause considerable deformational changes in the cornea, which preclude the use of a purely geometric/optical approach for predicting the resultant corneal curvature changes.

Cornea↗

On the computer-aided and optimal design of keratorefractive surgery.

BACKGROUND: Several recent papers have discussed the use of engineering-based computer methods for the analysis of keratorefractive surgical procedures. What has been lacking is a broader view of the role of engineering analysis in keratorefractive surgery. This article demonstrates how these various analysis methods can be coupled to provide a comprehensive methodology for the design of refractive surgical procedures. METHODS: A structural model of the eye, based on a linearly elastic, transversely isotropic finite element formulation is coupled to a full-eye optical model. The optical errors due to refractive keratotomy are estimated by ray tracing through the optical model and measuring the position of the resulting focal plane relative to the retina. Computer-based optimization methods are employed to determine the surgical parameters necessary to correct myopia for a given set of surgical design goals. RESULTS: Results based on a hypothetical eye demonstrate agreement with clinical trends. Radial keratotomies are designed that eliminate refractive error while minimizing invasiveness in one case and maximizing the optical zone size in another. It is also shown that there is significant potential to customize this process on a patient-by-patient basis using clinically measured data. CONCLUSIONS: We present an overview of the research necessary to bring this approach to fruition. While only a first step, the methodology presented in this article has the potential to increase the predictability of keratorefractive surgery by substantially increasing both the quality and the quantity of the information available to the refractive surgeon preoperatively.

Biomechanical Phenomena↗