Dichoptic 3D movies could offer a non-surgical alternative for intermittent exotropia

At-home treatment with dichoptic 3D movies significantly improves distance control in children with intermittent exotropia (IXT), while 2D movies do not show the same benefit, according to a study.

The study compared the effectiveness of dichoptic 3D and 2D movies in reducing suppression and enhancing stereoacuity.

Researchers enrolled 41 children (ages 3-13) with IXT, randomly assigning them to watch either 3D or 2D movies 3 times a week for 4 weeks. The primary outcome measured was the change in distance control score, assessed by pediatric eye specialists who were blinded to the treatment groups.

Children in the 3D group experienced a significant improvement in their distance control scores (1.38±1.06), while those in the 2D group had a less notable change (0.79±1.44). However, neither group showed significant changes in near control score, ocular alignment, or stereoacuity.

Reference
Jost RM, et al. Randomized Clinical Trial of Dichoptic 3D Movies versus Dichoptic 2D Movies for Treatment of Childhood Intermittent Exotropia. Presented at: 50th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus; March 5-9, 2025; Salt Lake City, UT.