[Hang-back retroposition as a variation in oculomotor muscle weakness]

In a clinical study the authors evaluate efficiency of the operation on oculomotoric muscles by the hang-back retroposition method. A total of 70 children have been operated on, 52 of the patients suffering from esotropia and 18 from exotropia. The mean preoperation deviation in esotropia was 30 +/- 12 pdpt, the postoperation deviation was in the range of 6 +/- 7 pdpt. In the exotropia cases the preoperation deviation improved from original 76.9%, in the exotropia group being 77.8%. The overall success rate of the hang-back retroposition in all these patients was 77.1%. Ina group of children operated on by a traditional retroposition there was an overall success rate 78.7% (77.6% in esotropia and 82.4% in exotropia cases). Hang-back retroposition has been equally effective as the traditional retroposition of oculomotoric muscles. Its main advantages include visibility of the operation field, minimum risk of perforation of sclera and a fair time factor of the intervention. The authors discuss the development, indications, further advantages but also possible disadvantages or limitations of this acknowledged surgical procedure in strabology.