Retinal detachment after strabismus surgery.

Four nonmyopic eyes in three patients developed retinal detachment after strabismus surgery. Certain features common in all four eyes included the presence of a chorioretinal scar corresponding in location to the muscle operated on, proliferating fibrous tissue adjacent to the scar, and varying degrees of vitreous hemorrhage. These findings were similar to those in retinal detachments after perforation of the eye by foreign bodies. Penetration of the globe by the needle during muscle surgery was considered the etiologic factor. The use of spatula needles to prevent piercing of the globe is suggested, and in case such accident is suspected, diathermy or cryoapplication over the perforation site is advised.