Population trends in adult strabismus surgery

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Trends
• Public Health

Background:

• Adult strabismus, a condition affecting eye alignment, can impact vision and quality of life.
• Surgical interventions aim to correct eye alignment and improve visual function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze trends in adult strabismus surgical procedures in Ontario between 2000 and 2013.
• To examine changes in the types of procedures performed and the surgeon demographics.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of population-based data from Ontario Health Insurance Plan claims.
• Data included patients aged 18+ undergoing strabismus surgery, analyzing procedure types, adjustable sutures, and repeat surgeries.
• Surgeon volume (high vs. low) was also assessed.

Main Results:

• Total adult strabismus surgeries increased by 26.0% per 100,000 population from 2000-2013.
• Procedures involving adjustable sutures rose by 30.3%, and repeat procedures increased by 19.1%.
• The number of surgeons performing these procedures decreased by 30.0%, with a concentration of surgeries among high-volume surgeons.

Conclusions:

• Adult strabismus surgery volume increased, alongside a trend towards more complex procedures and repeat surgeries, performed by a decreasing number of surgeons.
• Potential contributing factors include increased healthcare funding and greater recognition of the functional and psychosocial benefits of strabismus surgery.