Slanted medial rectus recesection for treatment of exotropia with convergence insufficiency strabismus: a report of results in 15 cases.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the surgical and functional results of slanted medial rectus resection for treatment intermittent exotropia of the convergence insufficiency type.

METHODS: Fifteen patients with near vision asthenopia and intermittent exotropia of the convergence insufficiency type were included in this prospective study. The upper edge of the MR was resected more than the lower edge. Slanted bilateral or unilateral medial rectus resection was performed. The mean length of follow-up was 14.9 months.

RESULTS: Slanted medial rectus resection(s) caused a significant postoperative reduction in the mean distance exodeviation from 11.40 to 4.53 PD, as well as a change in the mean near exodeviation from 23.93 to 10.73 PD. Although mean near-distance difference reduced from 12.53 to 6.2 PD. In final examination, 11 patients showed surgical success rate and recurrent exotropia occurred in 4 cases. On the other hand, 13 cases had experienced significant relief from their symptoms.

CONCLUSION: Slanted medial rectus resection is useful in decreasing the symptoms of intermittent exotropia of the convergence insufficiency type. However, it can result in undercorrection in larger deviations.