Pediatric traumatic cataract and surgery outcomes in eastern China: a hospital-based study
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Published on: July 7, 2023
Ying-Nan Xu1, Yu-Sen Huang, Li-Xin Xie
1Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong Province, China ; Shandong Eye Institute, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China.
Insights
Prompt treatment of pediatric traumatic cataracts is crucial for better outcomes. Early detection through education and improved healthcare can prevent severe complications in children.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Traumatic cataracts in children can lead to significant vision impairment.
- Understanding the causes and management of pediatric traumatic cataracts is essential for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causes, treatment strategies, and outcomes of pediatric traumatic cataracts in eastern China.
- To identify common injury mechanisms and complications associated with pediatric traumatic cataracts.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 117 pediatric patients with unilateral traumatic cataracts.
- Analysis of demographic data, injury characteristics, surgical interventions, and visual prognosis.
- Categorization of cataracts based on closed-globe and open-globe injuries.
Main Results:
- Sharp metal objects were the most frequent cause of injury.
- Corneal laceration was common in open-globe injuries, while traumatic mydriasis occurred in closed-globe injuries.
- Intraocular lens implantation rates were high in both open-globe (68.12%) and closed-globe (94.4%) injuries, with significant visual improvement post-surgery.
Conclusions:
- Timely intervention for pediatric traumatic cataracts is vital to minimize complications.
- Enhanced patient education and improved pediatric healthcare are necessary for early diagnosis and management.
Aim:
To evaluate the etiologies, management, and outcomes of pediatric traumatic cataract in eastern China.
Methods:
Pediatric traumatic cataract were reviewed for demographic information, type of injury, mode of injury, time of injury, interval between injury and first visiting doctors, hospital of first visiting, surgeries, complications and prognosis.
Results:
A total of 117 eyes of 117 patients (96 boys and 21 girls) with unilateral injuries (66 right and 51 left eyes) were included in the study. The mean (SEM) age at diagnosis was (6.6±3.2) years (range, 1.3-13.8 years). Each cataract was categorized according to the type of trauma: closed-globe (n=26) or open-globe (n=91) injuries. The most common injuring objects were sharp metal objects (37.61%). The most common complication in open-globe injuries was corneal laceration, whereas traumatic mydriasis was most common in closed-globe injuries. Of 68 eyes in patients with open-globe injuries who received cataract extraction, intraocular lens (IOLs) were primarily implanted in 47 eyes (68.12%), whereas 18 eyes with closed-globe injuries received cataract extraction, and IOLs were primarily implanted in 17 eyes (94.4%). The surgical procedures included reconstruction of the anterior segment, synechiolysis, excision of the membrane, lensectomy, vitrectomy and related techniques. Postoperative vision was significantly improved compared with preoperative vision.
Conclusion:
Pediatric traumatic cataract should be treated in time to attenuate the complications, and education on pediatric traumatic cataract and improvements in pediatric health care are needed for the early detection of cataract in children.