[Botulinum toxin in infantile estropia: long-term results]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric ophthalmology
• Strabismus treatment

Background:

• Infantile esotropia is a common form of strabismus in young children.
• Botulinum toxin injections are explored as a less invasive treatment option.
• Long-term efficacy of botulinum toxin for infantile esotropia requires evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the long-term outcomes of botulinum toxin injections in infants with esotropia.
• To determine the effectiveness of botulinum toxin in managing infantile esotropia symptoms and the need for subsequent surgery.

Main Methods:

• Nineteen infants aged 6-13 months received botulinum toxin injections into their medial recti.
• Evaluated the degree of eye deviation, associated symptoms, and surgical requirements over time.

Main Results:

• Esotropia frequently recurred in the long term.
• Partial improvement was observed for dissociated vertical deviation and nystagmus.
• Surgical intervention remained necessary for most patients.

Conclusions:

• While botulinum toxin injections can yield some initial positive results, they are less effective than incisional surgery for comprehensive management of infantile esotropia.
• Long-term effectiveness is limited, often necessitating further surgical treatment.