THE CANINE EYE - PECTINATE LIGAMENTS AND AQUEOUS OUTFLOW RESISTANCE

  • 1 January 1982
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 23  (6) , 726-732
Abstract
The contribution of the pectinate ligaments to total aqueous outflow resistance was studied in 30 excised canine eye pairs by constant-perfusion. Incision of these ligaments over 1 and 2 quadrants of the angle circumference increased the facility of aqueous outflow significantly more than could be attributed to normal washout alone. Neither mechanical nor enzymatic disruption of angle glycosaminoglycans could fully account for this phenomenon. The pectinate ligaments may contribute to the canine aqueous outflow barrier by compartmentalizing the glycosaminoglycans in the spaces of Fontana. These ligaments, analogous to iris processes in the human, prevent widening of the canine angle and hold the filtration structures in a relatively compressed state, a situation that can be reversed by ligament incision.