Changes in corneal and conjunctival sensitivity, tear film stability, and tear secretion after strabismus surgery.

PURPOSE: Some patients complain of a foreign body sensation, a burning sensation, or dryness after strabismus surgery. We prospectively investigated the changes in corneal and conjunctival sensitivity, tear film stability, and tear secretion after strabismus surgery.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Corneal and conjunctival sensitivity were assessed with an esthesiometer, tear film breakup time was measured, and the Schirmer test was performed prospectively (preoperatively and 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively) in 83 patients (124 eyes) who underwent strabismus surgery at our institution.

RESULTS

There were no significant changes in corneal sensitivity, tear film stability, or tear secretion after strabismus surgery (P > .05). Conjunctival sensitivity decreased significantly after strabismus surgery (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Discomfort and dryness after strabismus surgery do not seem to be related to changes in corneal sensitivity, tear film stability, or tear secretion.