THE REAPONSE OF A SIMULATED DETACHED RETINA TO VARIOUS DYNAMIC FORCES

摘要

This thesis is a report covering the initial phase of research to determine the response of a detached retina of the eye to various dynamic forces.nIn order to examine and substantiate the feasibility of a migratory reattachment under suitable dynamic conditions, a thin plastic model simulating the eye globe and a hemispherical rubber membrane with a hole representing a detached retina were devised. Experiments con¬ducted in this initial phase of research have shown the following results:n1) The simulated retina may settle from an extreme anterior position to its normal concave position under the influence of the earth's gravitational field alone in the course of days.n2) The application of unidirectional vibrations does not consistently produce reattachment.n3) Certain rotational vibrations accelerate markedly the reattachment. Completely detached diaphragms have been consistently reattached from the equatorial position within three to fifteen minutes depending on hole size and location as a result of rotational vibrations.n4) The simulated retina can be reattached from a full anterior position within approximately twenty minutes by placing the model on a centrifuge and subjecting it to a force field twice the magnitude of the earth's gravitation.[4] Sufficient testing has been accomplished to substantiate the feasibility of reattaching a detached retina by means of centrifugal force;however, full evaluation of the application of centrifugal force will be accomplished in the next phase of this research project.