Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: Performing a continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (CCC) in children is more challenging than in adults because of the more elastic properties of the juvenile lens capsule. The purpose of this study is to determine if viscoelastic agents of higher viscosity allow better control of the elastic capsule, thus reducing the rate of incomplete CCC during pediatric cataract surgery. Methods: A retrospective study of 25 eyes of 18 children undergoing cataract surgery by one surgeon was performed. The type of viscoelastic agent used for the CCC portion of the surgery was obtained from surgical dictations as well as from nursing charts. Information regarding the complications, if any, during the CCC were also obtained from the surgical dictations. The patient ages, types of cataracts, and position of lens placement were also obtained. Results: A CCC was successfully performed in 7 of 15 of eyes (46.7%, mean age 7.6 years) using either Healon (a cohesive viscoelastic agent) or Viscoat (a dispersive viscoelastic agent), compared to 9 of 10 eyes (90%, mean age 6.4 years) using Healon5 (Χ2=4.8900, p<0.05). The unsuccessful CCC's attempted in the Healon/Viscoat group consisted of 2 mature, 1 posterior polar, 1 posterior subcapsular, and 4 lamellar cataracts. The unsuccessful CCC attempted in the Healon5 group consisted of one mature cataract. Conclusions: The superviscous properties of Healon5 under low turbulence conditions appear to favor a higher completion rate of the CCC performed in children. CR: none
Keywords: clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: out • cataract • anterior segment