Strabismus Surgery

Henry was born with an eye that intermittently gazed outward, called "exotropia." The general disorder of an eye not aligned forward is called "strabismus."

From Wikipedia: "The brain's ability to see three-dimensional objects depends on proper alignment of the eyes. When both eyes are properly aligned and aimed at the same target, the visual portion of the brain fuses the forms into a single image. When one eye turns inward, outward, upward, or downward, two different pictures are sent to the brain. This causes loss of depth perception and binocular vision."

Before Surgery

After Surgery

Over a year ago, Henry had glaucoma surgery on the same eye. On November 7th, strabismus surgery was performed in Rochester to correct his alignment. It's a simple 20 minute surgery, quite routine in fact (his doctor, Dr. Gearinger, often performs eight or more on a given day), but it still requires anesthesiology, which is NEVER a "small thing" with Henry and his heart condition.

That all said - - WOW, what a difference it's made! Not only in his appearance, but i believe his reaction time and concentrated focus on an object is noticeable.

Henry's overall health and demeanor are excellent right now. We've not seen any recurring seizure activity (he's on medication for that) and his oxygen levels are holding steady at 82-85. He had a small ear infection that is almost gone, with good ol' antibiotics. He's happy, cooing, learning more signs (such as "more," "bye bye" and "all gone") and is getting stronger. He likes to stand a lot in his exersaucer, and is ALMOST at holding steady in a sitting position on his own (if he goes over, however, there's no getting back up on his own!).

He's 22 months old today. Wow. Time a'zooms...