Outcomes of modified vertical rectus belly transposition versus augmented superior rectus transposition for chronic abducens nerve palsy

To compare the surgical outcomes of modified vertical rectus belly transposition (mVRBT) and medial rectus recession (MRc) versus augmented superior rectus transposition (aSRT) and MRc in Chinese patients with chronic abducens nerve palsy. The medical records of patients with chronic abducens nerve palsy who underwent mVRBT/MRc or aSRT/MRc were retrospectively reviewed. Pre- and postoperative deviation in primary position, pre- and postoperative abduction limitation, and complications were recorded. Follow-up was at least 6 months. A total of 26 patients (mean age, 37.9 ± 19.6 years; 16 males [62%]) were included. Fourteen patients underwent mVRBT/MRc (mVRBT group) and 12 underwent aSRT/MRc (aSRT group). Both groups had similar amounts of recession (t = 0.27; P = 0.79). After surgery, statistically significant changes of abduction limitation and esotropia were observed (both P