Cataract surgery with primary intraocular lens implantation in children suffering from chronic uveitis

To evaluate the visual outcome of cataract surgery with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in children with chronic uveitis.

The records of seven children (9 eyes), with chronic uveitis who had cataract extraction with IOL implantation between 2001 and 2007, were retrospectively examined. The mean follow-up was 47.9 months, respectively. The postoperative visual outcome and complications were analyzed.

The mean age of 2 girls and 5 boys was 17.4 years (range from 12 to 21 years). 5 patients had unilateral cataract. 6 patients underwent cataract extraction with IOL implantation, one patient underwent combined cataract surgery with IOL implantation and trabeculectomy. Median age at surgery was 17.7 years. At the final follow-up examination 8 eyes (88.9%), had improved visual acuity. The visual acuity was 20/20 in one eye, 20/40 or better in 5 eyes and 20/50 in 3 eyes. Posterior capsule opacification was observed in 5 eyes, high intraocular pressure in 2 eyes and cystoid macular edema in 1 eye.

The outcomes of cataract extraction with IOL implantation in children's eyes with chronic uveitis may be satisfactory. Correct time of surgery, adequate long-term preoperative and postoperative anti-inflammatory therapy may promote good results.