Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 17, 2026
Iris Fixation via External Pentagram Suturing
Published on: May 5, 2022
Outcomes in persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous
1Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. hunt_adrian@bigpond.com
Insights
Early surgery for persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV) significantly improves visual outcomes. Prompt intervention before 77 days old offers the best chance for useful vision in affected infants.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Visual Rehabilitation
Background:
- Persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV) is a congenital condition affecting ocular development.
- Surgical intervention is considered for visual rehabilitation in selected cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report outcomes of PHPV cases.
- To identify factors predicting visual acuity in surgically treated patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of 55 eyes in 50 patients (1990-2001).
- 33 eyes underwent surgery for visual rehabilitation.
- Analysis of factors influencing visual acuity post-surgery.
Main Results:
- Median age at surgery was 77 days; median follow-up was 28 months.
- 18% achieved 6/60 or better vision; 24% achieved counting fingers vision.
- Surgery before 77 days increased odds of counting fingers vision by 13 times (p=0.01).
Conclusions:
- Early surgical intervention for PHPV improves the likelihood of useful visual outcomes.
- Age at surgery is a critical factor in predicting visual acuity.
- Posterior PHPV and post-surgical glaucoma did not significantly predict outcomes in this cohort.
Aims:
To report outcomes in cases of persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV) and examine factors predictive of visual acuity in patients selected for surgery.
Methods:
Retrospective case series of 55 eyes in 50 patients presenting between 1990 and 2001 at the Children's Hospital, Westmead. 33 eyes underwent surgery aimed at visual rehabilitation.
Results:
In surgical patients, median age at surgery was 77 days, and median age at final follow up was 28 months. Six (18%) achieved a visual acuity at final follow up of 6/60 or better and eight (24%) achieved acuity of less than 6/60 to counting finger vision inclusive. Those undergoing surgery before 77 days were approximately 13 times more likely to obtain a visual acuity of counting fingers or better than those operated later (p = 0.01). Neither posterior segment PHPV nor post-surgical glaucoma was a significant predictor of outcome in this selected group.
Conclusion:
Early surgery aimed at rehabilitation markedly improves the likelihood of useful visual outcome in selected eyes with PHPV.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Glaucoma: Overview
01:27Diabetic Retinopathy