Amblyopia, also known as lazy eye, is a vision disorder which typically features with poor or indistinct vision in an eye. The problem related to vision develops as a consequence of either poor or no transmission of the visual stimuli via the optic nerve to the brain. Amblyopia usually affects one eye but there are also cases when both eyes are affected. The best effects of the treatment are achieved if amblyopia is diagnosed in early childhood.
In people suffering from amblyopia the problem simply cannot be corrected with spectacles or contact lenses. This is why the surgery represents the only successful treatment modality for this eye condition. This surgery is considered a safe, effective and simple treatment with favorable results.
Causes of Amblyopia
Amblyopia basically affects children suffering from different problems of the eyes which occur during their developmental phase, to be more precise between the age of 0 and 6. This is a developmental problem in the brain. The part of the brain which corresponds to the visual system of the affected eye receives inadequate stimulation and develops abnormally. Several organic problems may induce amblyopia. In this case amblyopia persists even in case the underlying problem has been eliminated.
Majority of medical experts believe that constant lateral strabismus is the leading cause of amblyopia. Furthermore, amblyopia may develop as a consequence of anisometropia, a condition in which the two eyes have an unequal refractive power. And finally, this medical condition may result from eye injury or retinal tumors.
Surgery for Amblyopia
The final and definitive diagnosis of amblyopia can be set only by a well experienced doctor.
The amblyopia surgery is not recommended by all doctors since not many of them actually believe in its efficiency. On the other hand, the supporters of amblyopia surgery strongly believe that this surgical procedure may be very effective and restore proper transmission of visual stimuli via the optic nerve to the brain. Taken the previously mentioned into consideration it is best if a child undergoes every possible non-surgical treatment modality prior the actual surgery.
Surgery for amblyopia is recommended in case this visual disorder has developed due to unilateral strabismus. In this case the goal of the treatment is straightening of the eyes which will eventually result in re-establishment of proper transmission of visual stimuli. In some cases the amblyopia surgery is combined with vision correction techniques.
Unlike strabismus, amblyopia must be treated in early childhood and this is why the diagnosis must be set on time.
Your thoughts on this
Loading...