Our Summary

This research paper is about a type of eye disorder that is linked to aging, known as age-related strabismus. The paper specifically focuses on spontaneous forms of the disorder that are directly related to the aging process, excluding those caused by neurological problems.

As we age, both functional and structural changes in our eyes can lead to various problems, such as phoria decompensation (a condition where the eyes are not properly aligned), convergence insufficiency decompensation (a condition that affects the ability to maintain eye alignment when focusing on near objects), and new onset strabismus (a general term for misalignment of the eyes). The study also discusses a condition called sagging eye syndrome, which is linked to age-related structural changes in the muscles that control eye movement.

MRI studies support the idea that these age-related structural changes in the eye muscles can influence the eye’s position and movement. The study also suggests that different types of age-related eye disorders may actually be the same condition but with different names.

The paper emphasizes that all these age-related eye disorders need to be treated because they can cause diplopia (double vision). Treatment options include prisms or surgery, which can improve the quality of life for patients by eliminating double vision in primary position and main gazes.

FAQs

  1. What is age related strabismus and what causes it?
  2. What are the possible treatments for age related binocular disorders?
  3. How does the aging process affect the position and motility of the eye, leading to conditions such as sagging eye syndrome?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about strabismus surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and the best possible outcome. This may include using prescribed eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor progress. It is also important to communicate any concerns or changes in vision to your doctor promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for strabismus surgery are those with age related binocular vision disorders, such as phoria decompensation, convergence insufficiency decompensation, distance esotropia, and vertical strabismus induced by the sagging eye syndrome. These patients may experience diplopia and may benefit from surgery to improve their quality of life by eliminating diplopia in primary position and main gazes. Treatment options may include prisms or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.

Timeline

Before strabismus surgery:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as double vision, eye misalignment, and difficulty focusing
  • Patient may undergo a comprehensive eye exam to diagnose the type and severity of strabismus
  • Non-surgical treatment options such as vision therapy, prism glasses, and eye exercises may be recommended to improve alignment and binocular vision

After strabismus surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to correct the misalignment of the eyes
  • Recovery period may involve temporary discomfort, swelling, and redness in the eye area
  • Patient may need to wear an eye patch or protective shield after surgery
  • Follow-up appointments with the eye surgeon are necessary to monitor healing and alignment progress
  • Patient may experience improved eye alignment, reduced double vision, and better binocular vision after surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of strabismus surgery?
  2. How successful is strabismus surgery in correcting misalignment of the eyes?
  3. What is the recovery process like after strabismus surgery?
  4. Will I need to wear an eye patch or use eye drops after surgery?
  5. How long will it take for my vision to fully stabilize after strabismus surgery?
  6. Will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments to strabismus surgery that I should consider?
  8. How experienced are you in performing strabismus surgery?
  9. Can you provide me with information on the success rates of strabismus surgery in patients with similar conditions to mine?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take before or after strabismus surgery?

Reference

Authors: Cioplean D, Nitescu Raluca L. Journal: Rom J Ophthalmol. 2016 Apr-Jun;60(2):54-58. PMID: 29450323