Traumatic cataracts in young children. Correction of aphakia by intraocular lens implantation.

Thirty-seven children aged two to ten years old sustained unilateral traumatic cataract. Aspiration of the traumatic lens was followed by intraocular lens implantation in these 37 eyes. In 23 eyes an IOL was inserted during the initial surgical setting; in 14 eyes a secondary implantation was performed. In 34 eyes posterior capsulotomy and anterior vitrectomy was performed before insertion of the lens. No major post-operative complications were observed during the period of follow-up ranging from six to 24 months. In three cases, posterior capsulotomy was not carried out. Secondary surgical intervention was needed and the final visual outcome was poor in these three eyes. Visual acuity of 6/12 or better was achieved in 77% and 69% of the cases after primary or secondary IOL implantation, respectively. Best visual results were recorded in most cases four to ten months after the surgery. These results demonstrate that IOL implantation is a practical approach even in children of the younger age groups.