Our Summary

Strabismus is a condition where the eyes do not properly align with each other when looking at an object. It is one of the most difficult areas in the field of eye health. Recent advancements in imaging technology and understanding of the genetics behind strabismus have improved our knowledge of why it occurs. These imaging techniques are also being used to plan surgeries for strabismus.

In addition, new ways to manage amblyopia - a related condition where one eye is used more than the other - are being developed. Traditional eye pads are being replaced with iPads, which suggests the use of digital tools in treatment. The detection of losing stereopsis (the ability to perceive depth) is being used to determine when to perform strabismus surgery.

It has also been discovered that correcting strabismus can improve binocular summation, which is the ability of both eyes to work together to create a complete image. New surgical methods are being developed to correct more complex cases of strabismus, with adjustable stitches increasing the accuracy of the surgery.

Finally, the emotional and social effects of strabismus have been highlighted. The goal of modern strabismus treatment has shifted from simply aligning the eyes to regaining full vision functionality, particularly depth perception.

FAQs

  1. What is strabismus and how is it treated with surgery?
  2. How has the understanding and treatment of strabismus evolved with advances in imaging and genetics?
  3. What are some of the newer surgical techniques being used to correct complex strabismus?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about strabismus surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the surgeon, such as fasting before surgery and avoiding certain medications. It is also important to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery and to be patient during the recovery process. Additionally, it is important to attend all follow-up appointments and communicate any concerns or changes in vision to the surgeon promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for strabismus surgery are those who have:

  1. Persistent misalignment of the eyes that cannot be corrected with glasses or other non-surgical methods.
  2. Strabismus that is causing significant visual impairment or discomfort.
  3. Strabismus that is affecting the patient’s ability to perform daily activities or affecting their quality of life.
  4. Patients with a history of amblyopia (lazy eye) that has not responded to conventional treatment methods.
  5. Patients with strabismus that is causing double vision or other visual disturbances.
  6. Patients who have a desire to improve their appearance and self-confidence by correcting their eye alignment.
  7. Patients who have a strong desire to improve their binocular vision and regain stereopsis (depth perception).
  8. Patients who have realistic expectations about the outcomes of strabismus surgery and are willing to follow post-operative care instructions.

Timeline

Before Strabismus Surgery:

  • Patient notices misalignment of the eyes
  • Patient may experience double vision or amblyopia (lazy eye)
  • Patient visits an ophthalmologist for evaluation
  • Ophthalmologist conducts a thorough eye exam and may recommend strabismus surgery as a treatment option
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and consultation to determine the best surgical approach

After Strabismus Surgery:

  • Patient undergoes strabismus surgery to correct the misalignment of the eyes
  • Patient may experience discomfort, swelling, and redness in the eyes immediately after surgery
  • Patient is advised to rest and follow post-operative care instructions provided by the ophthalmologist
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and assess the success of the surgery
  • Patient may undergo vision therapy or other treatments to improve binocular vision and depth perception
  • Patient experiences improved eye alignment and may no longer experience double vision or amblyopia

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with strabismus surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of strabismus surgery in improving eye alignment?
  3. How long is the recovery process after strabismus surgery and what can I expect during that time?
  4. Will I need to wear an eye patch or use eye drops after the surgery?
  5. How many surgeries may be needed to fully correct my strabismus?
  6. Will I still need to wear glasses or contact lenses after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that could be effective in treating my strabismus?
  8. How soon after the surgery can I resume normal activities, such as driving or working?
  9. Will I need to follow up with regular appointments after the surgery, and if so, how often?
  10. What can I do to best prepare for the surgery and optimize the outcome of the procedure?

Reference

Authors: Sharma P, Gaur N, Phuljhele S, Saxena R. Journal: Indian J Ophthalmol. 2017 Mar;65(3):184-190. doi: 10.4103/ijo.IJO_867_16. PMID: 28440246