Zip-up Loop Myopexy in Heavy Eye Syndrome.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Techniques
• Strabismus Management

Background:

• Heavy eye syndrome presents significant challenges in muscle union.
• Accurate alignment of eye muscles is crucial for visual function.
• Existing surgical methods may have limitations in achieving optimal muscle approximation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel zip-up modification for loop myopexy.
• To evaluate the efficacy of this technique in heavy eye syndrome.
• To report surgical outcomes and complications associated with the modified procedure.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 8 patients with heavy eye syndrome undergoing the modified loop myopexy.
• Superior and lateral rectus muscles were approximated using sutures.
• A hand-over-hand technique with 5-0 polyester sutures was employed for muscle zipping.
• Pre- and post-operative measurements of ductions, versions, and strabismus angles were recorded.

Main Results:

• The mean age of patients was 60.8 years, with a mean axial length of 33.2 mm.
• Preoperative deviations averaged 78 PD horizontally and 34 PD vertically, with limited abduction and elevation.
• 7 of 8 patients achieved significant reduction in deviation angles (within 8 PD) and improved ductions post-surgery.
• No intraoperative complications were reported, with a median follow-up of 6 months.

Conclusions:

• The zip-up modification for loop myopexy is a valuable surgical approach for heavy eye syndrome.
• This technique facilitates muscle union and leads to satisfactory outcomes in most patients.
• The procedure demonstrates a favorable safety profile with minimal complications.