Pull-string technique for recovering subconjunctival short-tag noose adjustable sutures.

The "short tag noose" technique is used to adjust sutures after strabismus surgery. The pole and noose sutures are buried below conjunctiva for possible use in later adjustment; however, they are not always easily recoverable. We report a "pull string" modification of the technique that permits retrieval of the pole and noose sutures without the need to enlarge the conjunctival wound or explore the subconjunctival space. If suture adjustment proves unnecessary, the pull string can be removed effortlessly under topical anesthesia, even in uncooperative children.