Paralytic strabismus: the role of botulinum toxin.

Five adults with acute extraocular muscle palsies followed by limited recovery of muscle function were treated with injections of botulinum toxin A to the ipsilateral antagonist of the affected muscle. Three were cases of unilateral sixth nerve palsy, one of bilateral sixth nerve palsy, and one of third nerve palsy. After a period of paralysis, during which the strabismus was overcorrected, the injected muscle recovered and binocular sensory and motor functions were restored and have been maintained for periods of up to 21 months. The treatment is a safe and effective alternative to surgery, particularly in cases in which a general anaesthetic is not advisable.