Experimental creeping muscle.

Using healthy rabbits, medial and lateral rectus muscles were recessed. Classical Swann incisions, along with limbal incisions with and without conjunctival recession, were performed. The second variable of reactability of suture material, utilizing absorbable 6-0 chromic and nonabsorbable 6-0 tycron sutures, was tested. Using a 9-0 nylon marking suture for documentation of area of recession, anterior advancement could be accurately measured. Five months after surgery, the animals were sacrificed, and each muscle was examined. Regardless of incision perfored and regardless of suture type used, no anterior advancement of retroplaced muscles occurred.