Botulinum toxin injection into extraocular muscles as an alternative to strabismus surgery.

Sixty-seven injections of botulinum. A toxin were given to patients for correction of strabismus. No systemic complications of any kind have occurred. The maximum time of paralysis occurs four to five days following the injection, and then gradually diminishes, depending on the dose. The maximum correction of strabismus has been 40 prism diopters. The maximum follow-up following injection is six months. Injection of botulinum A toxin into extraocular muscle to weaken the muscle appears to be a practical adjunct or alternative to surgical correction.