Duane syndrome

Is there any other possible way duane syndrome can be treated besides surgery?

[Sandra M Brown, MD]

The first question is whether or not the Duane syndrome "needs" treatment.  There is no surgery that can restore full movement to the eye.  There are several very complex surgeries that can partly restore side movement, but I personally have not been impressed by the results.  Duane syndrome needs treatment primarily when the head position required to keep the eyes lined up is large, and cosmetically or functionally unacceptable.  A second indication in a young child is "giving up" on the head posture and using only one eye at a time.  If the patient has not been evaluated by a pediatric ophthalmologist, certainly get an opinion from one before proceeding.  You can find one near you at www.aapos.org.