Synthetic polypeptide sleeve for strabismus surgery.

A synthetic polypentapeptide sleeve was placed around the superior rectus muscle of five New Zealand white rabbits in hopes of preventing postoperative fibrous scarring. Two forms of the polypentapeptide were used. No significant inflammation or scarring occurred with either form of the polypentapeptide when compared to controls. One form elicited a fibrous membrane surrounding the sleeve within 2 weeks. The other elicited no such reaction after 2 months. The latter form of the polypentapeptide may be useful in preventing scarring following strabismus surgery.