[Scleral mini-incision without ultrasound in the treatment of congenital cataract].

PURPOSE: Congenital cataract surgery can be performed by pars plana or limbal incision. We report our experience with scleral incision without ultrasounds in congenital cataract surgery.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Fifteen children with congenital cataract underwent surgery of both eyes (30 eyes). The zonular ciliaris and the lens anlage were normal in all cases. All procedures were performed by the same surgeon. A 3.2 mm scleral tunnel incision was made 2 mm from the limbus. Large capsulorhexis or capsulopuncture were performed after injection of a viscoelastic substance in the anterior chamber. After hydrodissection, the nucleus and cortex were aspirated. The wound was closed by apposition suture.

RESULTS

The mean age was 70.13 months (range 5 months to 130 months). Mean induced astimatism calculated with the Cravy method was 0.70 dipoters. A posterior capsular tear was observed in 1 case.

CONCLUSION

Small scleral incision without ultrasounds has advantages. No expensive instruments are required and astimatism is not induced. The anterior chamber lies deep during the operation, protecting the endothelial cells and facilitating aspiration. Postoperative inflammation is minimal. The small scleral incision technique is useful in selected cases of congenital cataract.