[Combined laser instrumental extraction of congenital cataracts in children]

The authors have developed a new method for removal of congenital cataract in children, by taking into account its clinical forms, namely, combined laser instrumental extraction including YAG-laser anterior capsular rhexis, followed by removal of lens debris by the aspiration-irrigation technique. A differential technology of YAG-laser anterior capsular rhexis has been developed, by taking into account of age-specific features of the lens and eyes in children. The optimum energy modes and techniques have been defined for different clinical forms of congenital forms of congenital cataracts. An analysis of the outcomes and complications of extraction of congenital cataracts has indicated that the authors' combined laser instrumental extract procedure (75 operations) assures the better quality of anterior capsular excision, improves optical and functional effects, and reduces the frequency of some complications as compared to the routine instrumental procedure (107 operations) (p < 0.05-0.001). Clinicofunctional and immunological studies have provided evidence for that the YAG-laser technique has no significant effect on the child's eye. Combined laser instrumental extraction is indicated for the treatment of any forms of congenital cataracts in children.