Changes in refractive error and anterior segment parameters after isolated lateral rectus muscle recession

Purpose To evaluate the short-term effect of isolated lateral rectus muscle recession surgery on refractive error, corneal measurements, and anterior chamber depth and volume. Methods Consecutive patients who underwent isolated lateral rectus muscle recession from July 2008 to March 2009 were prospectively studied. Refractive error; corneal power, thickness, and volume; and anterior chamber depth and volume were measured (Pentacam) before and at 1 week and 1 month after surgery. Patients who could not maintain reliable fixation and those with sensory strabismus or a history of eye surgery were excluded. Pre- and postoperative measurements were compared by analysis of variance. Results A total of 24 eyes of 24 patients (average age, 8 years) were included. Bilateral lateral rectus muscle recession was performed in 19 patients; unilateral in 5. Overall, patients manifested statistically significant changes in spherical equivalent, horizontal and mean keratometry, corneal astigmatism, anterior chamber volume, and center and peripheral anterior chamber depth at 1 week after surgery ( P