RESUMO
Objective To investigate the differences in mechanical properties of the sclera in different regions. Methods The sclera of sus scrofa was divided into 3 regions, namely, anterior, equatorial and posterior area. Local indentation was performed on different areas of the whole sclera. Strip specimens of different regions were circumcised along the equatorial direction, and subjected to uniaxial stretching by INSTRON 5544. Results Within the normal physiological stress range, the stiffness at anterior, equatorial, and posterior area of the sclera measured by local indentation was (0.91±0.21), (0.6±0.16), (0.39±0.13) MPa, respectively. The elastic modulus at anterior, equatorial, and posterior area of the sclera measured by uniaxial stretching was (1-28±0.37), (0.95±0.31), (0.72±0.28) MPa, respectively. Conclusions The local indentation could reflect regional mechanical properties of the sclera. The anterior sclera performed a higher stiffness than the equatorial and posterior areas. The results provide references for further study on the pathogenesis of ocular diseases including myopia.