Combined anterior and posterior segment injuries in children: a review.

BACKGROUND

Combined anterior and posterior segment injuries in children require special attention to the unique characteristics of children's eyes, including a pronounced tendency to scar formation and proliferation, adherence of the posterior vitreous, as well as the danger of amblyopia.

METHODS

This article reviews the current body of literature documenting the main aspects of surgical management, complications, and prognosis of combined anterior and posterior segment injuries in children.

RESULTS

For optimal treatment success, special strategies are necessary with regard to: 1) comprehensive secondary operation for internal reconstruction, 2) encircling buckle surgery, 3) management of the lens, 4) use of a temporary keratoprosthesis, 5) endophthalmitis, and 6) late complications, e.g., secondary glaucoma, secondary strabismus, leukoma cornea, and phthisis bulbi. Further crucial prognostic factors were analyzed.

CONCLUSION

Combined anterior and posterior segment injuries in children require optimal surgical treatment management that varies from adult treatment with regard to several essential aspects. Care should be provided by pediatric ophthalmology specialists with orthoptic follow-up as necessary, over many years.