Adjustable Strabismus Surgery: Options for Adults - Ophthalmology

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Adjustable strabismus surgery is a specialized procedure designed to correct misalignment of the eyes, particularly in adults. This technique allows for real-time adjustments during the surgery, which can lead to more precise alignment outcomes. The success rate of adjustable strabismus surgery is generally higher than traditional methods because it enables the surgeon to fine-tune the position of the eye muscles while the patient is still under anesthesia. This is particularly beneficial for adults, as they may have more complex muscle imbalances and may require a more tailored approach to achieve optimal results.

In terms of the procedure itself, adjustable strabismus surgery typically involves the following steps:
1. Anesthesia: The patient is given either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the complexity of the case and the patient's preference.

2. Surgical Access: The surgeon makes small incisions in the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye) to access the eye muscles.

3. Muscle Adjustment: The surgeon can reposition the eye muscles by either reattaching them to the sclera (the white part of the eye) or adjusting their tension. The adjustable aspect comes into play when the surgeon uses a special technique to create a loop in the muscle sutures, allowing for adjustments after the initial placement.

4. Postoperative Adjustment: After the initial alignment is achieved, the surgeon can adjust the sutures to fine-tune the alignment before closing the incisions. This step is crucial as it allows for immediate correction of any misalignment that may still be present.

5. Recovery: Patients typically experience some swelling and discomfort post-surgery, but these symptoms usually resolve within a few days. Follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the alignment and make any necessary adjustments.

Regarding your inquiry about whether a specific hospital performs adjustable strabismus surgery, it is best to contact the hospital directly. Many specialized ophthalmology centers and hospitals with a focus on eye care offer this procedure, but availability can vary. If the hospital does not provide adjustable strabismus surgery, they may have alternative treatment options, such as:
- Traditional Strabismus Surgery: This involves similar steps but does not allow for intraoperative adjustments. The success rate can still be high, but it may not be as precise as adjustable techniques.

- Botulinum Toxin Injections: In some cases, botulinum toxin can be injected into the eye muscles to temporarily weaken them, allowing for realignment. This is often used for patients who may not be candidates for surgery or as a preliminary step before surgical intervention.

- Prism Glasses: These glasses can help manage double vision and may provide a non-surgical option for some patients.

- Vision Therapy: This is a non-invasive approach that involves exercises to improve coordination and control of eye movements. It may be beneficial for certain types of strabismus, especially in conjunction with other treatments.

In conclusion, adjustable strabismus surgery is a highly effective option for adults with eye misalignment, offering the advantage of real-time adjustments for optimal outcomes. If your hospital does not perform this procedure, they should be able to provide alternative treatment options tailored to your specific needs. It is essential to have a thorough discussion with your ophthalmologist to explore the best course of action for your condition.