Remifentanil: A help in topical strabismus surgery

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Topical anesthesia in strabismus surgery offers advantages but requires effective analgesia and sedation.
• Remifentanil, a potent opioid, has favorable pharmacokinetic properties for intraoperative use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the analgesic efficacy, side effects, and surgical outcomes of remifentanil-based sedation in topical strabismus surgery.
• To assess patient collaboration and satisfaction with this anesthetic technique.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective descriptive study of 39 patients undergoing strabismus surgery with topical anesthesia and remifentanil sedation.
• Analysis of anesthetic and surgical techniques, surgical results, deviation angle stability, and complications.

Main Results:

• A total of 39 patients (54% female, mean age 37.4 years) were included with a mean follow-up of 24.5 months.
• Common diagnoses included exotropia (21) and esotropia (12).
• 79% achieved good surgical results, 82% were satisfied, and the reintervention rate was 5%. Minor side effects included vomiting and thoracic rigidity.

Conclusions:

• Analgesia-based sedation with remifentanil is a valuable adjunct to topical strabismus surgery.
• It effectively manages pain and facilitates patient cooperation during intraoperative adjustments.
• The pharmacokinetic profile of remifentanil supports its use in this setting, leading to favorable surgical outcomes.