Marginal myotomy of the medial rectus with lateral rectus resection as a secondary procedure for esotropia

Between 1964 and 1982, 89 marginal myotomies were performed, 70 on the medial rectus with lateral rectus resection as a combined secondary procedure for esotropia. Successful realignment was attained in 51% of the cases (for both distance and near measurements); undercorrection occurred in 34% (either distance or near), and overcorrection in 14% (either distance or near). Further operation was required in 17%, of which 4% were for overcorrection. Initial postoperative alignment was maintained at subsequent follow-up. The degree of change in deviation did not correlate with the degree of resection of the lateral rectus or the degree of medial rectus myotomy. Marginal myotomy of the medial rectus with lateral rectus resection is a useful procedure that should be part of the repertoire of all strabismus surgeons.