This invention describes an ultrasound technique that maps out the mechanical properties of the cornea and the sclera to the intrinsic mechanical loadings in the eye. It helps identify the abnormally weaker or stiffer regions in the eye, to add functional information for early and definitive diagnosis of corneal diseases, surgical planning, prevention of surgical complications, as well as better interpretation of tonometric readings. This technique will allow a spatial mapping of the mechanical strains developed in the cornea or the sclera during ocular pulse or other intraocular pressure fluctuations. The envisioned use of this technique resembles the current clinical ophthalmic ultrasound in terms of the patient experience, but provides functional information about the eye tissue that is not available from current clinical ultrasound.
