Strabismus (squint) repair

Strabismus is a term used to describe the condition where both eyes do not look in the same direction as each other (also known as squint or lazy eye). Strabismus may be present at birth, appear during childhood or following an illness or injury. The eye muscles can be operated on to straighten the eyes. This may help the eyes work together. Treatment may also include glasses, wearing a patch over one eye and eye exercises which will be continued following eye surgery.

Length of hospital stay

An overnight stay in hospital is not normally needed.

Preparation for surgery

Your child's anaesthetist will meet with you and your child before the operation to outline the type of anaesthesia to be used, and will welcome any questions you have. A premedication may be ordered at this time. This usually takes the form of a medicine to be swallowed that will provide pain relief, sedation or both. If it is planned to start the anaesthesia by injection, local anaesthetic cream can be put on at this time to numb the area of skin where the intravenous needle/drip is to be put in.

Length of procedure

Your child will be away from you for approximately 30 - 45 mins (1 eye), 60 - 90 mins (2 eyes).

After surgery

You should tell your child that they may wake from the anaesthetic and find a  patch over their eye when they return from theatre. The eyes will feel like they have sand or grit in them and your child will want to rub them. Encourage your child not to touch their eyes. A cool, damp cloth over the uncovered eyes can help soothe the eyes.

Try to encourage your child to sleep after their surgery. They may be reluctant to open their eyes for several hours - this is normal. Blood stained tears are to be expected and may worsen if your child cries or vomits. If further bleeding occurs please phone the hospital or your eye doctor.

The eye doctor may review your child before discharge to check their eye movements. They will also tell you when the eye patch, if used, can be removed.

Your child will need to stay in the Day Surgery Ward for approximately 2hours after surgery but may need to stay a little longer.

Pain relief

Paracetamol (Panadol) will be given to your child before surgery.  It is suggested that pain relief be continued 4 to 6 hourly as recommended for the next 24 hours. If this is not adequate, please contact your family doctor.

Drips and vomiting

Drowsiness and vomiting are both normal after squint surgery. Your child will return from theatre with an Intravenous Cannula (IV drip) in their hand. They will be given antivomiting medication and IV fluids while in theatre and may require further medication via their drip after returning to the ward. The nurse will remove the drip before you go home (approximately 1 ½ hours after the operation).

Diet and fluids

There is no need for a special diet following this procedure, but it is recommended your child not eat greasy foods as these may cause vomiting. Do not be concerned if your child vomits once or twice after leaving hospital, but if they are unable to keep fluids down and continue to vomit, please contact your family doctor.

Discharge care

Eye medication will be prescribed by the surgeon and may be collected from Pharmacy on discharge. The pharmacist will explain how to use the medication.

Always wash your hands before and after cleaning and treating the eye.

The eyes will be red and there may be some facial bruising lasting approximately two weeks. The eyes may not be in perfect alignment immediately following surgery due to swelling of the eye muscles . This will settle down after a few weeks. Your child should continue to wear their prescription glasses. Sunglasses may assist with sun glare.

Follow up appointments

Your child will be seen by the doctor 1 - 2 weeks after surgery in the Outpatient Department or the surgeon's rooms. For outpatient appointments  phone (08) 8161 7399.

Return to school and sport

Return to school after 2 - 7 days.   Your child should not swim or play in sand for 3 weeks.

If you have any concerns after discharge please telephone the Paediatric Day Unit (08) 8161 7448, Monday - Friday, 7.30am - 6.30pm, or see your Family Doctor.    

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