duane's syndrome

  there seems to be little info out about duane's syndrome.  an opthomologist told me that it is very common but the more i try to learn about it the less common it seems.  i would like as much info as you can give me about the condition.  why is surgery only recommended if person is having trouble with posture of neck???  does the double vision that occurs last a long time or what?  my mother seems to think that is why my 3 year old falls down? if surgery is recommended, what age is it recommended at?  other than the double vision, is the vision ok?  i am taking my child for regular check-ups but surgery has not been recommended at this time. thank you for your info.
As you know Duane's syndrome is a condition that affects the movement of one eye.  The eyelid opening may also change during certain positions of gaze.  The syndrome is caused by poor development of one of the nerves that controls eye movement.  Fortunately, most children do very well.  Most children do not require surgery.  This condition does require regular monitoring of the vision by an experienced ophthalmologist to make sure the child is not developing a lazy eye.  If the child is developing a lazy eye (poor vision) than surgery to correct the position of the eye is indicated.  As you mentioned, surgery may also be indicated if there is a significant head turn.  You should be able to get some literature from your ophthalmologist regarding Duane's.
If you are interested in seeing a pediatric ophthalmologist at Henry Ford, please call 3139162020.
This information was provided for educational purposes only.
Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-JL
*Keywords: Duane's