The authors examined the impact of accompanying systemic diseases on surgical planning and the postoperative period in patients undergoing congenital cataract surgery. This was a retrospective study over 2010–2024 of 142 patients (239 eyes): 75 females and 67 males. 45 had unilateral surgery and 97 bilateral surgery. Age at presentation was 4.22 ±3.20 months, and at surgery was 4.99 ±3.60 months. Gestational age was 37.2 ±3.4 months and follow-up was for 30.6 ±33.9 months. Family history of congenital cataract was in 23.9%. Total cataract was in 59.3%, 35.2% had coexistent ocular pathology (most common being nystagmus, strabismus and retinopathy of prematurity) and 28.2% had coexistent systemic disease (diseases of neuromuscular system, genetic disease, metabolic disease). 22 children were admitted to intensive care after surgery. The authors recommend a multidisciplinary team approach to the management of congenital cataract given the potential complexities associated with co-existent ocular and systemic conditions.
Associated ocular and systemic disease in congenital cataract
Reviewed by Fiona Rowe
Challenges and complications in the management of systemic diseases in congenital cataract surgery.
CONTRIBUTOR
Fiona Rowe (Prof)
Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, UK.
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