Postoperative refractive changes in children with congenital esotropia: a preliminary study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Ophthalmology
• Strabismus Surgery

Background:

• Congenital esotropia is a common condition requiring surgical intervention in children.
• Postoperative refractive changes, including myopia, can occur following strabismus surgery.
• Amblyopia is a significant concern in pediatric eye conditions and requires proactive management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the occurrence and characteristics of transient myopia after congenital esotropia surgery in children.
• To determine if patient age at surgery or surgical technique influences postoperative refractive changes.
• To emphasize the importance of early refractive correction and follow-up for preventing amblyopia.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 23 children who underwent surgery for congenital esotropia.
• Assessment of refractive status at 2 months postoperatively.
• Correlation analysis between age at surgery, muscle recession/resection length, and myopic shifts.
• Evaluation of visual acuity at the final follow-up examination.

Main Results:

• A transient myopic inclination was observed in 23 children 2 months after surgery.
• No significant correlation was found between age at surgery or surgical extent and the development of myopia.
• The majority of children (21/23) achieved a visual acuity of 6/10 or better by the final examination.

Conclusions:

• Transient myopia is a potential postoperative complication following congenital esotropia surgery.
• Age and surgical variables do not appear to predict this refractive change.
• Prompt refractive correction and consistent follow-up are vital for optimal visual outcomes and amblyopia prevention in these patients.