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Use of intraocular lenses in children with traumatic cataract in south India
M Eckstein1, P Vijayalakshmi, M Killedar
1Aravind Eye Hospital and Postgraduate Institute of Ophthalmology, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Insights
Intraocular lens implantation for traumatic cataracts in young children yielded encouraging visual acuity results after 3 years. Planning for posterior capsule opacification is crucial in developing countries with unreliable follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Ophthalmology
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Traumatic cataracts in children often require surgical intervention.
- Intraocular lens (IOL) implantation is a common method for visual rehabilitation.
- Developing countries face unique challenges in managing pediatric eye conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term outcomes of IOL implantation for traumatic cataracts in young children.
- To assess visual acuity and complications following surgery in a developing country context.
- To inform surgical strategies for managing pediatric traumatic cataracts.
Main Methods:
- A prospective hospital-based study was conducted in South India.
- 52 children (aged 2-10 years) with unilateral traumatic cataracts underwent surgery.
- Follow-up was conducted for 3 years post-operatively.
Main Results:
- No serious operative complications were reported.
- Posterior capsule opacification occurred in 92% of eyes, requiring intervention.
- Pupil capture affected 35% of eyes.
- 67% of eyes achieved a visual acuity of 6/12 or better.
Conclusions:
- IOL implantation for traumatic cataracts in children in South India showed promising visual acuity outcomes at 3 years.
- Posterior capsule management is essential, especially in settings with challenging follow-up.
- Proactive clearing of the posterior capsule during or after surgery is recommended.
Aims:
To assess the long term results of intraocular lens (IOL) implantation for traumatic cataract in young children in a developing country.
Methods:
Prospective hospital based study of 52 children (age 2-10 years) undergoing unilateral cataract extraction and IOL insertion for traumatic cataract performed by a single surgeon in south India. Children were reviewed regularly and followed up initially for 3 years.
Results:
There were no serious operative complications. Clinically significant posterior capsule opacification was almost universal (92%) and YAG capsulotomy or membranectomy was performed on 48 eyes. Some degree of pupil capture affected 35% of eyes and was complete in 6%. Visual acuity was 6/12 or better in 67% of eyes at the last follow up examination.
Conclusion:
The visual acuity results 3 years after implantation of posterior chamber IOLs in older children with traumatic cataracts in south India were encouraging. In developing countries where follow up is unreliable it is essential to plan to clear the axial part of the posterior capsule either at the time of surgery or soon afterwards.