Bilateral superior rectus transposition and medial rectus recession for bilateral sixth nerve palsy

PURPOSE: To present the results of bilateral superior rectus transposition with medial rectus recession in a case of chronic bilateral sixth nerve palsy. OBSERVATION: Bilateral superior rectus transposition with medial rectus recession resulted in full correction of esotropia with resolution of horizontal diplopia, improvement in abduction, and regain of stereoacuity in our case. There was minimal limitation of adduction, with no abnormal vertical or torsional changes. CONCLUSION AND IMPORTANCE: Bilateral superior rectus transposition with medial rectus recession appears to be a useful procedure for surgical treatment of bilateral sixth nerve palsy with minimal side effects. Given its potential for reduced risk of anterior segment ischemia (ASI), it may have especially good value in the select group of patients at risk for ASI. Studies with larger sample size and longer follow up are needed to further evaluate this procedure and elucidate the variables in surgical technique for superior rectus transposition.