Abstract: Duane's retraction syndrome (DRS) is characterized by limitation of horizontal duction associated with globe retraction and consequent narrowing of the palpebral fissure in adduction, with occasional upshoot or downshoot during adduction. It can be devided into type Ⅰ, Ⅱ, Ⅲ based on different ocular signs. As originally, DRS was thought to be due to anatomical abnormality, but new findings suggested that the pathogenesis was related to congenital dysinnervation of the lateral rectus muscle. The surgical strategy for DRS posed a challenge as all components of the disorders need to be taken into account on a case-by-case basis.

Key words: Duane’s retraction syndrome, ocular motility disorder, congenital cranial dysinnervation disorders syndrome