Refractive changes following congenital ptosis surgery.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Refractive Error

Background:

• Congenital ptosis, a drooping eyelid present from birth, can affect vision and appearance.
• Surgically induced refractive change (SIRC) is a potential complication following ptosis correction.
• Understanding SIRC is vital for optimizing surgical outcomes in pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the occurrence and magnitude of surgically induced refractive changes (SIRC) after congenital ptosis surgery.
• To compare pre-operative and post-operative refractive parameters in pediatric patients undergoing ptosis correction.
• To assess the impact of congenital ptosis surgery on visual acuity and refractive status.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of medical records from 24 pediatric patients (age < 18) who underwent congenital ptosis surgery.
• Collected pre-operative and at least 3-month post-operative cycloplegic refraction data.
• Analyzed surgically induced refractive change (SIRC) and marginal reflex distance-1 (MRD-1).

Main Results:

• Congenital ptosis surgery led to significant refractive changes in the operated eyes of pediatric patients.
• Most patients experienced over 0.5D change in sphere, cylinder, and spherical equivalent post-surgery.
• Marginal reflex distance-1 (MRD-1) improved significantly from 1.04 mm to 2.36 mm post-operatively.

Conclusions:

• Congenital ptosis surgery is associated with surgically induced refractive changes in a majority of pediatric patients.
• Close monitoring with frequent cycloplegic refraction examinations is recommended post-surgery.
• Determining optimal timing for ptosis surgery and subsequent visual management is essential.