Abstract

Treatment options for adult strabismus

Author(s): David R Stager Sr, David R Stager Jr and George R Beauchamp

In the past, misaligned eyes were considered to be only a pediatric problem. We now realize that it is a common problem in the adult population, affecting as many as 4% over the age of 15 years. There are multiple problems associated with this condition, including psychosocial problems, bias and discrimination, communication skills and adverse vocational opportunities. In addition, these patients may have significant physical handicaps, including double vision, suppression, loss of stereopsis and fusion, abnormal head posture and abnormal field of vision. Driving skills may also be impaired. There is often a long delay in appropriate strabismus correction in these patients due, in part, to antiquated professional advice. The importance of strabismus treatment in adults and the outlook for successful treatment with modern techniques is the rationale behind this review. The heartfelt overwhelming joy that patients express when told that their years of suffering may be over with modern treatment options is extremely moving.