Performing combined strabismus and cataract surgery: an effective approach in selected cases

In the presence of both strabismus and cataract, it is always a dilemma whether to manage them separately or together. In this paper, the authors evaluate the results of combined strabismus and cataract surgery.

The records of 50 patients were reviewed retrospectively. They were divided into two groups: those who developed strabismus first and cataract later (group 1, n = 17 patients) and those who developed cataract first and strabismus later (group 2, n = 33 patients).

Motor alignment (less than 10 prism diopters) was achieved in 35.3% in group 1 and 75.8% in group 2. Visual success (20/40 or better) was attained in 70.6% in group 1 and 57.6% in group 2. In group 1, when the angle of deviation was more than 80 prism diopters, poor motor alignment was achieved (25%).

Surgical success after one operation was achieved in the majority of all eyes that had combined surgery. In selected cases, combined strabismus and cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure, optimizing the alignment of the visual axes, improving visual acuity, and minimizing the need for additional procedures.