Objective:

To provide an evidence-based update on amblyopia management and challenge traditional treatment beliefs.

Key Findings:

• Less intensive patching (2-6 hours daily) is effective for amblyopia treatment into adolescence.
• Atropine penalization is as effective as patching for moderate amblyopia.
• Optical correction alone can significantly improve visual acuity and is a valid first-line therapy.
• Digital therapies have shown promise, with some being superior or noninferior to traditional methods.

Interpretation:

Amblyopia management is evolving, with evidence supporting treatment effectiveness beyond early childhood and the introduction of less intensive regimens and digital therapies.

Limitations:

• Questions remain about the long-term effectiveness of emerging therapies.
• The role of digital therapies in older children is still unclear.
• Comparative effectiveness of digital therapies versus traditional patching needs further investigation.

Conclusion:

Ongoing research is crucial to clarify the role of new therapies in amblyopia treatment, emphasizing the need for evidence-based approaches in clinical practice.