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What are the effects of metopic synostosis on visual function?
Claire Macintosh1, Rachel Wells, David Johnson
1Oxford Craniofacial Unit, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK. claire.macintosh@orh.nhs.uk
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|July 21, 2011
Summary
Children with metopic synostosis have a higher incidence of vision problems like refractive errors and strabismus. Early ophthalmic surveillance is crucial for monitoring visual development in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Neurosurgery
- Genetics
Background:
- Metopic synostosis involves premature fusion of the metopic suture, potentially impacting visual development.
- Previous studies suggested a link between metopic synostosis and visual impairments, particularly refractive errors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of significant refractive error and strabismus in children with metopic synostosis.
- To compare these incidences with the general pediatric population.
- To investigate the relationship between age at surgery and visual outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of medical records for 64 children diagnosed with metopic synostosis.
- Ophthalmic and orthoptic assessments were reviewed.
- Data on refractive errors, strabismus, and age at surgery were collected.
Main Results:
- 31% of children with metopic synostosis had visual problems, including refractive errors (18 children) and strabismus (10 children).
- The majority of refractive errors were hypermetropia, often with low astigmatism.
- The incidence of these visual issues was significantly higher than in the general pediatric population (5%-11%).
Conclusions:
- Metopic synostosis is associated with a higher prevalence of significant refractive error and strabismus.
- The findings underscore the necessity of regular ophthalmic and orthoptic screening for children with metopic synostosis.
- Age at surgery did not appear to affect visual outcomes in this cohort.
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