Simulation study of the impact of iris-fixated lenses on aqueous flow and ocular structures
Ajay Kumar, A. Benerji Babu, M. R. Flarence
Abstract
Anterior chamber (AC) phakic intraocular lenses are increasingly used to manage high myopia, particularly in patients with thin corneas. However, the implantation of iris-fixated lenses can slightly alter the aqueous humor (AH) flow within the AC, affecting critical ocular structures. Despite their clinical relevance, the detailed effects of these flow modifications remain insufficiently understood. To address this gap, we employ advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to comprehensively investigate AH flow in the presence of iris-fixated intraocular lenses. This study reveals previously unexplored features of intraocular flow parameters such as wall shear stress (WSS), skin friction coefficient (SFC), surface Stanton number, strain rate (SR), stream function, and pathline visualizations analyzed in different positions across ocular structures. The findings show how these parameters are influenced by lens implantation, with detailed analysis of the cornea, iris, and trabecular meshwork (TM). Moreover, we also explored how age-related physiological changes can further modulate the dynamics of AH, offering a broader understanding of vision and overall health. To ensure the accuracy of our simulations, we conducted validation using established experimental measurements, analytical result, and existing computational data. This work provides a valuable foundation for optimizing lens design and placement to mitigate postoperative complications.