An enduring classic revisited: a comparative study of standard vs. augmented FINK techniques in V-pattern correction

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Techniques
• Strabismus Correction

Background:

• V-pattern strabismus often co-occurs with primary inferior oblique overaction.
• The Fink technique is a standard surgical approach for this condition.
• Augmentations to the Fink technique aim to improve correction efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of the original Fink technique versus augmented versions for V-pattern strabismus.
• To evaluate the impact of increased inferior oblique recession on V-pattern correction.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 29 patients undergoing strabismus surgery.
• Comparison of standard Fink technique (8-mm recession) with augmented variants (9, 10, 11-mm recession).
• Assessment of V-pattern reduction in prism diopters (PD) using cover testing.

Main Results:

• Greater inferior oblique recession correlated with improved V-pattern reduction.
• The 11-mm recession group showed the most significant correction (p < .05 vs. 8-mm and 9-mm groups).
• The 9-mm group had variable outcomes; the 10-mm group had limited data.

Conclusions:

• Augmenting the Fink technique with more inferior oblique recession enhances V-pattern strabismus correction.
• 11-mm recessions appear most effective without significant anteriorization.
• Customizable augmentations based on V-pattern severity are suggested, requiring further prospective validation.