[Development of lens opacity in children's eyes following extracapsular cataract extraction]

In a group of 14 children who underwent extracapsular cataract extraction for cataract of the posterior pole, a reopacification of the posterior capsule was observed in all 18 eyes treated. Only in four eyes, in which rupture of the posterior capsule had occurred intraoperatively, was a reoperation unnecessary. In ten eyes satisfactory removal of the opacifications was accomplished using McIntyre's aspiration cannula; in four cases lensectomy was performed because of severe fibrosis. During a follow-up period of two to eight months after the posterior capsule had been rendered clear, transparency was found to be good in eight out of ten eyes.