P Meier1, I Sterker, H Tegetmeyer, P Wiedemann. 1. Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum AöR, Universität Leipzig, Deutschland. Petra.Meier@medizin.uni-leipzig.de
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Congenital cataract surgery can be performed using a pars plana/plicata approach if placement of an intraocular lens at the time of cataract removal is not a consideration. To prevent development of secondary cataract, we performed lens aspiration, anterior and posterior capsulotomy, and anterior vitrectomy via pars plana or pars plicata approach. Lentectomy in babies should be performed using a minimally invasive technique to prevent complications. Immediately after surgery, insertion of a contact lens should be possible. METHOD: The series consisted of 11 eyes of 8 consecutive children who suffered from congenital cataract and underwent pars plana/plicata lentectomy between April 2007 and September 2008. Age at operation ranged from 6 weeks to 13 months (median age 4 months). The inclusion criterion was congenital cataract affecting the visual axis. Lentectomy was performed via a pars plana or pars plicata approach using a special 23-gauge aspiration and irrigation system and a 23-gauge cutter. We performed lens aspiration, anterior and posterior capsulotomy, and anterior vitrectomy. RESULTS: Postoperatively the eyes showed only mild signs of inflammatory reaction. At the end of the operation, all eyes were provided with contact lenses. For all eyes, the surgical technique provided a clear visual axis during the follow-up period of 2-18 months. One eye developed secondary cataract. CONCLUSION: The use of 23-gauge instruments has advantages over standard 20-gauge equipment. Pars plana/plicata lentectomy using 23-gauge instruments is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive method for treating cataract in babies.
BACKGROUND:Congenital cataract surgery can be performed using a pars plana/plicata approach if placement of an intraocular lens at the time of cataract removal is not a consideration. To prevent development of secondary cataract, we performed lens aspiration, anterior and posterior capsulotomy, and anterior vitrectomy via pars plana or pars plicata approach. Lentectomy in babies should be performed using a minimally invasive technique to prevent complications. Immediately after surgery, insertion of a contact lens should be possible. METHOD: The series consisted of 11 eyes of 8 consecutive children who suffered from congenital cataract and underwent pars plana/plicata lentectomy between April 2007 and September 2008. Age at operation ranged from 6 weeks to 13 months (median age 4 months). The inclusion criterion was congenital cataract affecting the visual axis. Lentectomy was performed via a pars plana or pars plicata approach using a special 23-gauge aspiration and irrigation system and a 23-gauge cutter. We performed lens aspiration, anterior and posterior capsulotomy, and anterior vitrectomy. RESULTS: Postoperatively the eyes showed only mild signs of inflammatory reaction. At the end of the operation, all eyes were provided with contact lenses. For all eyes, the surgical technique provided a clear visual axis during the follow-up period of 2-18 months. One eye developed secondary cataract. CONCLUSION: The use of 23-gauge instruments has advantages over standard 20-gauge equipment. Pars plana/plicata lentectomy using 23-gauge instruments is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive method for treating cataract in babies.