What is the term for the complete severing of a muscle or tendon during strabismus surgery?

The correct term for the complete severing of a muscle or tendon during strabismus surgery is tenotomy. This surgical procedure is specifically performed to disconnect or divide the muscle or tendon of the eye to correct misalignment, or strabismus. By severing the muscle, surgical correction allows for realignment of the eye(s) by reducing the force exerted by the muscle.

Understanding the context of strabismus surgery is essential, as it often involves adjusting the tension of the eye muscles to restore proper alignment and binocular vision. The process of tenotomy allows surgeons to directly address issues arising from overly tight muscles, thus providing the opportunity for improved ocular function.

Tendonitis refers to inflammation of a tendon, which is not relevant to the act of severing a tendon or muscle. Tenodesis refers to the surgical fixation of a tendon to a bone, which does not involve severing. Myotomy involves cutting a muscle, but it is generally more associated with muscle lengthening or reduction rather than the specific context of surgery for strabismus. Thus, tenotomy accurately describes the intended procedure in this surgical context.