Corrosion casts of the suprachoroidal space and uveoscleral drainage routes in the pig eye.

Abstract

Eyes from pigs were studied by corrosion casting technique. Batson's mixture No. 17 (methyl methacrylate) was injected through a sclerotomy into the suprachoroidal space. Following polymerisation of the injected mixture the surrounding tissue was dissolved with 10% natrium hydroxide. Macroscopic and scanning electron microscopic findings in casts of the suprachoroidal space are presented. The outer (scleral) surface of the casts was rough, with a fish-scale-like appearance caused by fine lamellas between the sclera and choroid, running from the inner layers of the sclera traversing the space anteriorly to the choroid. Frequently, irregular, Y-shaped branches deriving from the outer surface of the casts were observed. They corresponded to the perivascular space of the vortex veins and represent a possible uveoscleral drainage route for aqueous humour.