Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026
04:36
Implantation Protocol of the Foldable Capsular Vitreous Body for Complex Vitreoretinal Surgery
Published on: April 14, 2026
Persistent Fetal Vasculature With Elongated Ciliary Process: Surgical Impact on Outcomes
Massimiliano Serafino1, Rupal H Trivedi2, Paolo Nucci3
1Department of Surgical Science, Division of Ophthalmology, Instituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy.
Journal of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus
|August 4, 2026
Summary
Infants with persistent fetal vasculature (PFV) and elongated ciliary processes often need repeat surgeries for cataracts. Complete membrane removal and cuts around ciliary processes may reduce reoperations.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Persistent fetal vasculature (PFV) is a congenital condition that can cause cataracts in infants.
- Elongated ciliary processes are a specific characteristic of PFV that may influence surgical outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate surgical outcomes and reoperation rates in infants with PFV and elongated ciliary processes.
- To determine the necessity of fibrosis removal and per Ciliary process incisions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 21 eyes in infants younger than 7 months undergoing cataract surgery for PFV.
- All patients had lensectomy, posterior capsulectomy, and vitrectomy.
- Follow-up averaged 18.9 months.
Main Results:
- 28% of eyes experienced visual axis opacification post-surgery.
- Only one patient achieved visual acuity better than 20/200.
- Five eyes had incomplete retrolental membrane removal without circumferential ciliary process cuts.
Conclusions:
- Infants with PFV and elongated ciliary processes have a high rate of reoperation.
- Complete retrolental membrane removal with circumferential ciliary process cuts may decrease recurrent fibrosis and reoperation needs.
