A 3D Finite Element evaluation of the exophthalmia reduction

Abstract

This paper presents a first evaluation of the feasibility of Finite Element modelling of the orbital decompression, in the context of exophthalmia. First simulations are carried out with data extracted from a patient TDM exam. Results seem to qualitatively validate the feasibility of the simulations, with a Finite Element analysis that converges and provides a backward movement of the ocular globe associated with displacements of the fat tissues through the sinuses. This FE model can help a surgeon for the planning of the exophthalmia reduction, and especially for the position and the size of the decompression hole. To get an estimation of the fat tissues volume affected by the surgery, an analytical model seems to provide quicker results for an equivalent efficiency.