Strabismus surgery in the treatment of paralytic strabismus

Strabismus surgery may restore limited binocular function and improve cosmesis in patients with paralytic strabismus. Evaluation of the amount of residual function of the affected extraocular muscles is essential to determine which surgical procedure will yield the best results. Standard muscle resection techniques are effective for patients who have paretic extraocular muscles with residual function. Muscle transposition procedures are indicated for patients with total paralysis of an extraocular muscle. Autogenous and alloplastic materials may be required to fix the eye in primary position in patients with total paralysis of multiple extraocular muscles. This article discusses the recent literature regarding the evaluation and management of patients with paralytic strabismus. Current concepts regarding extraocular muscle transposition and the use of autogenous materials are emphasized.