Purpose: To report a case of delayed rectus muscle hemorrhage after strabismus surgery.
Methods: Case report.
Results: Rectus muscle hemorrhage occurred 36 hours after strabismus surgery in a 26-year-old man, causing temporary loss of vision and reduced ocular motility. Urgent lateral cantholysis and orbital exploration to restore hemostasis were undertaken. Full recovery of vision occurred and a small residual motility disturbance was present 3 months postoperatively.
Conclusion: Delayed rectus muscle hemorrhage poststrabismus surgery is rare but can have sight-threatening effects. When vision is threatened because of optic nerve compromise, urgent orbital exploration may allow full recovery of function.