3D-printed eye model: Simulation of intraocular pressure

by Hidenaga Kobashi, Masaaki Kobayashi

To develop artificial eye models using 3D printing and to evaluate the correlation between different corneal thicknesses and intraocular pressures (IOPs).

We designed 7 artificial eye models using a computer-aided design system and fabricated them using 3D printing. Corneal curvature and axial length were based on the Gullstrand eye model. Hydrogels were injected into the vitreous cavity, and seven different corneal thicknesses (200 to 800 μm) were prepared. In this proposed design, we also produced different corneal stiffnesses. A Tono-Pen AVIA tonometer was used by the same examiner to perform five consecutive IOP measurements in each eye model.

Different eye models were ideally created using 3D printing. IOP measurements were successfully performed in each eye model. The corneal thickness was significantly correlated with IOP (R² = 0.927; ????<0.001).

The 3D-printed eye model is useful for evaluating IOP measurements. This technique might be a promising alternative to the conventional porcine eye model.