Strabismus surgery, recession or resection procedure; 1 horizontal muscle
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Strabismus Surgery, Recession or Resection Procedure; 1 Horizontal Muscle
Summary
Strabismus surgery involves adjusting the muscles around the eye to correct misalignment. The two main techniques are recession (loosening the muscle) and resection (tightening the muscle), specifically targeting one horizontal muscle.
Purpose
Strabismus surgery addresses eye misalignment, where one or both eyes turn inward, outward, upward, or downward. The main goal is to improve eye alignment and function, potentially enhancing vision and improving cosmetic appearance.
Indications
Patients experiencing eye misalignment, double vision, or significant eye strain may be candidates for this procedure. It is also indicated in cases of lazy eye (amblyopia) if non-surgical treatments are ineffective.
Preparation
Patients are typically advised to avoid eating or drinking after midnight before the surgery. Medications may need adjustment, particularly blood thinners. Pre-operative assessments often include a comprehensive eye exam and possibly imaging tests.
Procedure Description
- The patient is given general anesthesia.
- An incision is made in the conjunctiva (the outer membrane of the eye).
- For recession: The muscle is detached from its original insertion and reattached further back on the eye.
- For resection: A section of the muscle is removed, and the shortened muscle is reattached to its original position.
- The incision is closed with dissolvable stitches.
Tools include scalpels, forceps, and sutures.
Duration
The procedure typically takes about 30 to 90 minutes.
Setting
The surgery is usually performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.
Personnel
The procedure involves an ophthalmologist specializing in strabismus surgery, surgical nurses, and an anesthesiologist.
Risks and Complications
Common risks include infection, bleeding, and swelling. Rare complications can involve further misalignment, vision loss, or need for additional surgery.
Benefits
Patients can expect improved eye alignment, which may enhance both function and appearance. Benefits are often realized shortly after recovery.
Recovery
Post-procedure, patients may need to use eye drops and wear an eye patch. Full recovery typically takes a few weeks, with restrictions on heavy lifting and rigorous activities. Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and eye alignment.
Alternatives
Non-surgical options include glasses with prisms, vision therapy, or Botox injections. Each alternative has different effectiveness and duration of benefits compared to surgery.
Patient Experience
Patients may experience mild to moderate discomfort post-surgery, which can be managed with medications. They may also notice temporary double vision or blurred vision as the eye heals and adjusts.