Scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation in unilateral aphakic children

Secondary Intraocular Lens Implantation (IOL) in Children- What, Why, When, and How?

PURPOSE

To provide a comprehensive review on secondary IOL implantation in children who have undergone primary surgery at an early age and are aphakic aiming at answering common dilemmas among pediatric ophthalmologists.

METHOD OF LITERATURE REVIEW

A systematic literature search was done using keywords like secondary intraocular implantation, congenital cataractand surgical aphakia. Various novel case reports, retrospective case studies and review articles covering different aspects of secondary IOL implantation were searched and reviewed using PubMed and Google scholar journal search engines.

RESULTS

This article highlights various aspects of secondary IOL implantation like the appropriate timing should be when the child is entering preschool, with the proper technique being in bag fixation is the most preferred method with least associated complications and the IOL type should be decided based on the fixation site.

CONCLUSION

Secondary IOL implantation can accomplish good and stable long-term outcomes in children. It is the most accepted mode of optical correction once the appropriate age is achieved.

Phacoemulsification Combined With Supra-Capsular and Scleral-Fixated Intraocular Lens Implantation in Microspherophakia: A Retrospective Comparative Study

Background

Microspherophakia (MSP) is a rare ocular condition, the lens surgery of which is complicated by both insufficient zonules and undersized capsule.

Methods

This study included MSP eyes managed with phacoemulsification combined with supra-capsular and scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation (SCSF-IOL) and made the comparison with those treated by transscleral-fixated modified capsular tension ring and in-the-bag intraocular lens implantation (MCTR-IOL).

Results

A total of 20 MSP patients underwent SCSF-IOL, and 17 patients received MCTR-IOL. The postoperative best corrected visual acuity was significantly improved in both groups (P < 0.001), but no difference was found between the groups (P = 0.326). The IOL tilt was also comparable (P = 0.216). Prophylactic Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy was performed 1 week to 1 month after the SCSF-IOL procedure. In the SCSF-IOL group, two eyes (10.00%) needed repeated laser treatment and one eye (5.00%) had a decentered capsule opening. Posterior capsule opacification was the most common complication (6, 35.29%) in the MCTR group. No IOL dislocation, secondary glaucoma, or retinal detachment was observed during follow-up.

Conclusions

SCSF-IOL is a viable option for managing MSP and is comparable with the MCTR-IOL. Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy was necessary to prevent residual capsule complications after the SCSF-IOL procedure.

Endoscopy-guided in vivo evaluation of ciliary sulcus location in children with ectopia lentis

OBJECTIVE

To assess a new method to measure the distance of the needle passage from the ciliary sulcus to the corneal limbus anterior border (CTC) in eyes with ectopia lentis directly in vivo via endoscopy and to further evaluate the correlations among the CTC, age, automated horizontal white-to-white distance (WTW), and ocular axial length (AL).

METHODS

The WTW and AL were measured using an optical biometer. An intraocular endoscope was used during transscleral suture fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses to identify the true location of the ciliary sulcus. Linear regression analysis was used to assess the correlation between the CTC and other ocular biological parameters, including age, WTW, and AL.

RESULTS

Thirty eyes of 30 children with ectopia lentis were evaluated. A statistically significant correlation was found between age and the CTC. The CTC could be predicted by the equation CTC = 0.1313 × Age + 0.9666. No statistically significant correlations were found between CTC and WTW, CTC and AL, WTW and AL, or WTW and age.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopy is useful for precisely suturing intraocular lens haptics in the real ciliary sulcus. Age can be used as an equivalent parameter for prediction of the true ciliary sulcus location.

Comparison of retropupillary fixated iris claw lens versus sclera fixated lens for correction of pediatric aphakia secondary to ectopia lentis

AIM:

To evaluate the postoperative visual acuity and complications in eyes with ectopia lentis in children who underwent lens removal and then implantation of retropupillary fixated iris claw lens versus scleral fixated intraocular lens (SFIOL) implantation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A retrospective analysis of pediatric cases who presented with lens subluxation secondary to ectopia lentis and who underwent lens extraction (57 eyes of 38 patients) with either retropupillary iris fixated intraocular lens (IOL) implantation (Group A – 36 eyes of 20 patients) and SFIOL implantation (Group B – 21 eyes of 18 patients) was done over a period of 5 years from March 2010 to February 2015. The main outcome measures were preoperative and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and secondary postoperative complications.

RESULTS:

The study patients were divided into two groups: Group A patients were implanted with retropupillary iris claw lens whereas Group B patients were implanted with SFIOL. The mean age of presentation was 12 years, the mean follow-up period was of 24 months (range 14–36 months), and the median follow-up period was 26 months in both the groups. An improvement in the mean BCVA (LogMAR) was seen in both the groups. In Group A, the mean BCVA improved from 1.5 ± 0.2 preoperatively to 0.3 ± 0.2 postoperatively, whereas in Group B, the mean BCVA improved from 1.5 ± 0.3 preoperatively to 0.3 ± 0.2 postoperatively (P < 0.001). None of the eyes in either of the groups had any serious complications such as glaucoma, uveitis, cystoid macular edema, or endophthalmitis.

CONCLUSION:

Retropupillary iris fixation and scleral fixation of IOL are both safe and viable options for the correction of ectopia lentis in pediatric age group.

Outcome of Sutured Scleral-Fixated Intraocular Lens in Blunt and Penetrating Trauma in Children

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To determine the anatomical and functional outcomes of sutured scleral-fixated intraocular lens (SSFIOL) implantation in children with blunt and penetrating injuries to the eye.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective, interventional case series study. Case records of children who underwent SSFIOL implantation in a tertiary eye care facility for traumatic aphakia, cataract, or subluxation were screened. Relevant data on demographics, visual acuity (VA) outcomes, and complications and their management were collected. Results for blunt and penetrating trauma were compared.

RESULTS

There was stability or improvement of vision in 88.9% of eyes during the follow-up period. Young age at time of trauma (P = .031) and SSFIOL implantation (P = .002), history of retinal detachment (RD) before SSFIOL implantation (P = .019), poor preoperative best-corrected VA (BCVA) (P = .004), and development of RD in the follow-up period (P = .046) were independent risk factors for low final BCVA on univariate regression analysis. RD rate was 6.53% and was comparable in open and closed globe injuries. Intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation rate was 3.9%, and probability of survival was higher for open globe (0.78) as compared to closed globe (0.64) injuries (P = .042).

CONCLUSIONS

SSFIOL implantation results in good VA improvement in both open and closed globe injuries. RD remains an important vision-threatening complication. IOL dislocation is more likely to occur in closed globe injuries. A prospective study evaluating the outcomes would better elucidate the role of these IOLs. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2018;49:757-764.].

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in paediatric patients after pars plana vitrectomy and sutured scleral-fixated intraocular lenses

PurposeTo report the incidence rate, management, and surgical outcomes of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) in children who underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with sutured scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation (SSFIOL).Patients and methodsOf the 279 eyes of 230 children who underwent PPV with SSFIOL at a tertiary eye care centre, 16 eyes of 15 children developed RRD. Retrospective analysis of the surgical details of RRD, the structural and functional outcomes was done.ResultsOf the 279 eyes of 230 children who underwent PPV with SSFIOL, RRD was seen in 5.7% of the eyes. Average age was 10.7 years (range 4-15 years). Indication for SSFIOL implantation was congenital subluxation of lens (8 eyes) and traumatic aphakia or lens subluxation (4 eyes each). PPV was done in 15 of the 16 eyes, and 1 patient underwent scleral buckling. Retina was attached at the last follow-up visit in 87.5% of the eyes with median number of surgeries being 1. BCVA at the time of retinal detachment, multiple surgeries, and PVR at presentation were associated with poor visual outcome.ConclusionSurgery for SSFIOL in our series of paediatric eyes was complicated by vision-threatening RRD in 5.7% of cases. Surgical outcome in eyes with RRD without PVR was better (100%) than that in those, where PVR had already set in (75%). Need for regular follow-up and self-monitoring of vision should be emphasized and discussed with the parents before surgical intervention.

Assessment of the safety and efficacy of primary retropupillary fixation of iris-claw intraocular lenses in children with large lens subluxations

PURPOSE

To evaluate whether retropupillary fixation of the iris-claw intraocular lens (IOL) is a safe and effective treatment option in children with large lens subluxations.

METHODS

Fourteen eyes of children between the ages of 8-17 years with lens subluxations more than 7 clock hours underwent pars plana lensectomy-vitrectomy with implantation of the iris-claw IOL in the retropupillary position as a primary procedure. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal endothelial count (EC) and the lens position using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) were assessed pre- and postoperatively.

RESULTS

Postoperatively, all patients had an increase in the BCVA with a mean of 0.351 ± 0.154 log MAR units which was statistically significant as compared to the preoperative value of 0.771 ± 0.132 log MAR units (p = 0.003). The difference between the mean preoperative IOP (13.642 ± 2.437 mmHg) and the mean postoperative intraocular pressure at the end of 6 months (13.5 ± 2.244 mmHg) was not statistically significant (p = 0.671). The mean EC decreased by 0.99% from 2838.42 ± 474.76 cells/mm² preoperatively to 2810 ± 461.24 cells/mm² at the end of 6 months postoperatively (p = 0.117). The lens position was analyzed using UBM and was found to be parallel to the iris plane in all cases at the end of 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that primary retropupillary iris-claw IOL implantation can be a safe and efficacious option for children with large (>7 clock hours) lens subluxations that is at least comparable to scleral-fixated PCIOLs.

Modified technique of endocapsular lens aspiration for severely subluxated lenses

PurposeSeverely subluxated crystalline lenses pose a difficult situation to anterior segment surgeons and can only be managed surgically by removal of the lens as well as the capsular bag. Several techniques have been described in literature for the management of such cases. We describe a modified technique of endocapsular lens aspiration by the limbal route for lens extraction through small incisions on the cornea.Patients and methodsThirty-two eyes of 16 consecutive patients with severely subluxated crystalline lenses were recruited in the study. All eyes underwent a modified technique of lens aspiration within the capsular bag using a single instrument, vitrectomy cutter, and irrigation cannula, followed by sacrificing of the capsular bag. The patients were either left aphakic or implanted with an open loop anterior chamber intraocular lens (ACIOL Kelman Multiflex) and prospectively followed up for a period of 3 months.ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 9 years 3 months±3 years (range 5-15 yrs). All eyes underwent complete lens aspiration within the capsular bag with no dislocation of the lens matter. ACIOL was inserted in 22 eyes (68.7%) and 10 eyes (31.2%) were left aphakic. All the surgeries were uneventful. The mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 3 months post surgery was 0.47±0.11 logMAR which was significantly better than pre-operative BCVA (P=0.001). The percentage endothelial cell loss at 3 months was 7.1%. There was no evidence of glaucoma, corneal decompensation, or retinal detachment. The astigmatism which increased from 1.45D±086 preoperatively to 3.76D±2.02 1 week post-operatively due to sutures reduced to 1.97D±0.81 post suture removal at 3 months.ConclusionThe modified technique of endocapsular lens aspiration proves to be a simple and effective method of removal of the lens-capsular bag complex in severely subluxated lenses.

Scleral-Fixated Intraocular Lenses: Past and Present

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) can have inadequate support for placement in the capsular bag as a result of ocular trauma, metabolic or inherited conditions such as Marfan's syndrome or pseudoexfoliation, or complicated cataract surgery. Surgical options for patients with inadequate capsular support include alternative placement in the anterior chamber (ACIOLs), fixation to the iris, or fixation to the sclera. The surgical techniques for each of these approaches have improved considerably over the last several decades resulting in improved visual and ocular outcomes. If no capsular or iris support exists, the surgeon can fixate an IOL to the sclera or the patient can remain aphakic. IOLs can be fixated to the sclera using sutures or by tunneling the IOL haptics into the sclera without sutures. This review summarizes the pre-operative considerations, surgical techniques, outcomes, and unique complications associated with implantation of scleral-fixated IOLs.

Primary and Secondary Intraocular Lens Implantations in Children With Pediatric Cataract: Visual Acuity and Strabismus at the Age of 2 Years and Older

PURPOSE

To compare the visual outcomes of primary and secondary intraocular lens (IOL) implantations and to identify the risk factors for the development of strabismus in patients with pediatric cataract.

METHODS

The records of the pediatric patients who had undergone cataract surgery between January 1999 and November 2014 were reviewed retrospectively. The results of the cases with cataract extraction with primary IOL implantation (primary group) and cases with secondary IOL implantation (secondary group) were compared and the risk factors for the development of strabismus were investigated.

RESULTS

This study included 220 eyes of 148 patients who had surgery for pediatric cataract. The mean age of the patients was 6.84 ± 3.45 years (range: 2 to 17 years) for the primary group at the time of cataract extraction and primary posterior chamber IOL implantation and 8.92 ± 5.12 years (range: 2 to 18 years) for the secondary group at the time of secondary IOL implantation (P = .118). Strabismus developed in 28 patients (23.73%) in the primary group and 9 patients (30%) in the secondary group (P = .702). At the last postoperative examination, Snellen visual acuity was 0.44 and 0.28 for the primary and secondary groups, respectively (P = .013). There was a negative relationship between visual acuity and the development of strabismus (P = .048), whereas there was a positive relationship between the follow-up period and the development of strabismus (P = .008).

CONCLUSIONS

Optic rehabilitation of the pediatric cataract is an important factor in the development of strabismus. These cases should be monitored closely. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2017;54(2):97-102.].

New Management Strategies for Ectopia Lentis

Ectopia lentis refers to displacement of the crystalline lens in the setting of various systemic and metabolic disorders. A literature review was conducted to investigate the management of non-traumatic ectopia lentis in the pediatric population, particularly focusing on surgical intervention. Both limbal and pars plana approaches for lensectomy are well established in the literature. Surgical options for intraocular lens implantation in pediatric eyes with ectopia lentis include anterior chamber intraocular lenses and iris-fixated or scleral-fixated posterior chamber intraocular lenses. Recently, the use of capsular tension rings has also been described with promising results. Visual rehabilitation and treatment of amblyopia are essential for patients within the amblyogenic age group following surgical intervention.

Surgical management of lens subluxation in Marfan syndrome

PURPOSE

To review the literature on the surgical management, describe a simplified surgical technique, and to report the postoperative clinical course of ectopia lentis removal in patients with Marfan syndrome.

METHODS

The medical records of patients with a clinical diagnosis of Marfan syndrome and clinically significant lens subluxation were retrospectively reviewed. Patients underwent lens extraction by a single surgeon via a simplified anterior segment approach. The pre- and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity, biometric measurements, intraocular pressure, and incidence of surgery-related complications were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 42 eyes of 22 patients were included. Mean postoperative follow-up was 4.9 ± 2.9 years (range, 1-10 years). Average age at surgery was 10.2 ± 9.2 years (range, 2-37 years), with 18 patients (36 eyes) ≤ 18 years of age. The average preoperative best-corrected visual acuity was 20/80, and the average postoperative best-corrected visual acuity at last follow-up was 20/25, with an average improvement of 6 lines on the Snellen chart. All eyes had a best-corrected visual acuity > 20/30 at last follow-up with aphakic correction. One eye of 1 patient developed a retinal detachment following blunt trauma. No other intra- or postoperative complications were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Anterior lensectomy and limited vitrectomy with aphakic correction is safe and provides a consistent visual outcome in patients with lens subluxation secondary to Marfan syndrome. This is especially important in pediatric patients, in whom long-term follow-up for iris- and scleral-fixated intraocular lenses is limited.

Posterior iris-claw aphakic intraocular lens implantation in children

PURPOSE

To evaluate the indications, visual outcomes, and complication rate after posterior implantation of an iris-claw aphakic intraocular lens (IOL) in children.

DESIGN

Noncomparative retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

setting: Institutional practice. patients/intervention procedures: Seven eyes of 4 children without adequate capsular support had posterior chamber iris-claw aphakic IOL implantation between 2007 and 2012. main outcome measures: Visual acuity, endothelial cell changes, intraoperative and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

The mean age of the 3 boys and 1 girl was 12.0 ± 3.4 (SD) years (range 8-16 years). In all eyes, the mean postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (0.13 ± 0.17 logMAR) was statistically significantly better at the last follow-up than at 1 day preoperatively (0.60 ± 0.39 logMAR) (P < .05). The mean follow-up was 31 months (range 10-64 months). The mean endothelial cell density decreased from 3013 ± 155 cells/mm(2) preoperatively to 2831 ± 236 cells/mm(2) at last follow-up, representing a mean endothelial cell loss of 6.4%. No corneal decompensation, iritis, secondary glaucoma, or pupillary block occurred after surgery in any eye. Postoperative complications included transient postoperative hypotony in 1 eye and a traumatic dislocation of a posterior aphakic iris-claw IOL in 1 eye.

CONCLUSION

The posterior implantation technique of aphakic iris-claw IOL provided good visual outcomes with a favorable complication rate and can be used as a reasonable alternative for a wide range of indications in pediatric eyes without adequate capsular support.

Surgical management of non-traumatic pediatric ectopia lentis: A case series and review of the literature

PURPOSE

To report a small series of pediatric patients with ectopia lentis that underwent limbal-approach lensectomy and vitrectomy and scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation and to review the literature on the topic of surgical management of ectopia lentis.

METHOD

A retrospective review of 13 eyes of seven patients that underwent lensectomy, vitrectomy, and scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation and a review of the ophthalmic literature.

RESULTS

In our series, the average age at surgery was 70.3 ± 13.8 months and the average length of follow-up was 23.8 ± 5.9 months. The mean pre-operative visual acuity was 0.86 ± 0.17 which improved to 0.23 ± 0.09 post-operatively (p < 0.001). No complications were encountered in our series. A review of the literature found that amblyopia was the biggest vision-limiting factor. In general, the literature suggested that a higher percentage of eyes that were left aphakic achieved better vision than those implanted with a scleral-fixated intraocular lens. However, there may be selection bias in that more eyes receiving an intraocular lens may have pre-existing amblyopia. The complication rates for lensectomy or scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation were low in the literature. In the latter group, suture breakage and resultant intraocular lens dislocation is a worrisome late complication.

CONCLUSION

Surgical intervention for ectopia lentis via vitrectomy techniques yields good result. In cases of unilateral aphakia or in settings where compliance with aphakic refractive correction is questionable and amblyopia is a constant threat, scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation is highly encouraged. However, long-term follow-up is required due to the risk of suture breakage and resultant intraocular lens dislocation over time.

Scleral fixation of intraocular lens in eyes with history of open globe injury

PURPOSE

To report the results and complications of scleral fixation of intraocular lens (SF-IOL) in traumatized eyes of children with iris defects and inadequate capsular support with technique customized to the condition of the eye.

METHODS

Retrospective review of pediatric eyes with a history of open globe injury and SF-IOLs. All eyes had undergone pars plana vitrectomy and lensectomy after primary repair of the laceration. Site of scleral fixation and limbal incision were selected according to the site of traumatic scar, remaining capsular support, and keratometry.

RESULTS

Ten patients with a mean age of 6.1 years were included. Mean duration of aphakia was 18.7 months. Five eyes had adequate capsular support for one haptic of the IOL. The only intraoperative complication was mild ciliary body hemorrhage. Mean follow-up was 11.8 months. Uncorrected visual acuity did not improve postoperatively in only one eye due to severe corneal astigmatism. Best-corrected visual acuity improved in 6 eyes. Mean postoperative sphere and cylinder were 1.8 and -3.05 diopters, respectively. The only postoperative complication was decentration of a sulcus-fixed haptic needing reoperation in one eye.

CONCLUSION

SF-IOL is a viable option for correcting traumatic aphakia and can have good results if customized to the condition of the eye.

Posterior chamber lens implantation with scleral fixation in children with traumatic cataract

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcomes of posterior chamber lens implantation with scleral fixation (SF-PCIOL) in children with traumatic cataract.

METHODS

Twenty-four eyes of 24 cases were included. All patients had corneal or corneoscleral lacerations that were primarily repaired. Traumatic cataract subsequently developed and SF-PCIOL was performed due to insufficient posterior capsule support.

RESULTS

The average age of the patients was 5.8 years (range: 4 to 10 years). All cases had SF-PCIOL implanted via internal route using triangular double scleral flaps made of 9-0 polypropylene after a complete anterior vitrectomy. Average follow-up was 14.6 ± 4.3 months (range: 11 to 18 months). Visual acuity was increased at the last visit in 23 (96%) patients. Common postoperative complications were fibrinous reaction in 6 (25%) patients, transient intraocular pressure increase in 4 (17%) patients, membrane formation requiring removal in 1 (4%) patient, transient intraocular hemorrhage as vitreous hemorrhage in 1 (4%) patient, and retinal detachment in 1 (4%) patient after the postoperative second month.

CONCLUSION

SF-PCIOL is an effective and reliable method in patients with pediatric traumatic cataract who had insufficient posterior capsule support.

Visual rehabilitation by scleral fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses in Omani children with aphakia

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To report indications and outcomes of scleral-fixated posterior chamber intraocular lenses (PC IOLs) in Omani children with aphakia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with aphakia who were younger than 16 years, unsuitable for spectacle or contact lens correction, and without capsular support underwent an anterior vitrectomy and 10-0 polypropylene inside-out scleral fixation ofa PC IOL.

RESULTS

Scleral-fixated PC IOLs were implanted in 28 eyes of 24 patients. Group A comprised 10 (36%) eyes with congenital cataract and 3 (11%) eyes with ectopia lentis and group B comprised 15 (53%) eyes with traumatic cataract. The mean age at implantation was higher in group A (10.5 years) than in group B (7.3 years). Visual acuity improved in 17 of 28 (61%) eyes and remained at the preoperative levels in 11 of 28 (39%) eyes. Mean postoperative refraction was within +/- 2.0 diopters of the predicted refraction in 19 of 28 (68%) eyes. Complications included temporary intraocular pressure increase, vitreous hemorrhage, and iris capture with lens malposition.

CONCLUSION

Scleral-fixated PC IOLs are beneficial for children with aphakia without posterior capsular support who are lacking other means for visual rehabilitation. Patients with traumatic cataract and lens dislocation are more likely to experience an improvement in visual acuity postoperatively than patients with congenital cataract. However, this procedure is technically more difficult than routine PC IOL implantation and potentially carries greater risks.

Unilateral scleral fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses in pediatric complicated traumatic cataracts

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the visual outcomes and complications of unilateral scleral fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses (SF-PCIOLs) in pediatric complicated traumatic cataracts without capsular support.

METHODS

This study involved five eyes of five children who underwent unilateral SF-PCIOL. All patients had a unilateral complicated traumatic cataract associated with anterior or posterior segment injury. Visual acuity (VA), IOL position, and postoperative complications were assessed during follow-up.

RESULTS

The mean age of patients at the time of SF-PCIOL was 90 months (range, 66-115). The mean duration of follow-up time after surgery was 22 months (range, 5-55). In all patients, the best-corrected VA was either improved or was stable at last follow-up following SF-PCIOL implantation. There were no serious complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Unilateral scleral fixation of PCIOL can be a safe and effective procedure for pediatric, unilateral, complicated traumatic cataracts without capsular support in selected cases.

Iris-fixated posterior chamber intraocular lenses in children

PURPOSE

To report the short-term outcomes and complications of iris-fixated posterior chamber intraocular lenses (PCIOL) in the pediatric population.

DESIGN

Retrospective, observational case study.

METHODS

Twelve consecutive pediatric patients (17 eyes) underwent placement of foldable iris-sutured PCIOLs between September 1, 2004 and September 30, 2007 by two anterior segment surgeons at a single academic center. Outcome measures included change in visual acuity (VA) and complications.

RESULTS

In our series, there was a higher rate of dislocation of iris-sutured IOLs in patients with a history of ectopia lentis resulting from Marfan syndrome or hereditary or idiopathic causes than in patients being treated for aphakia resulting from other causes (45% vs 0%). Mean final VA improved by 0.23 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution units from preoperative baseline. One eye of a Marfan patient sustained a retinal detachment eight months after dislocation of the PCIOL, and one patient experienced iris capture of the IOL after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Iris-fixated IOLs are reasonable alternative to transsclerally sutured IOLs to correct aphakia in pediatric patient. Dislocation of the IOLs can occur, however, and there is concern for suture degradation over time. The procedure should be considered with caution in pediatric patients.

Safety of transscleral-sutured intraocular lenses in children

PURPOSE

To evaluate the long-term efficacy, safety, and advisability of transscleral-sutured posterior chamber intraocular lenses (IOLs) in pediatric patients with no capsular support and to determine whether a 10-0 polypropylene suture should be used for this purpose.

METHODS

A long-term retrospective interventional case series review of 33 eyes of 26 patients who had a sutured IOL at Duke University Eye Center. Cases were evaluated for the intraoperative surgical risks and the number, type, and severity of the postoperative complications. A survey of pediatric ophthalmologists' experience with suture breakage was performed.

RESULTS

Intraoperative and immediate postoperative complications were minimal and not sight-threatening for the patient. Four patients developed subluxation of the IOL secondary to spontaneous 10-0 polypropylene suture breakage at 3.5, 5, 6, and 8 years after surgery. A survey of pediatric ophthalmologists revealed 13 similar cases (mean, 5 years after surgery).

CONCLUSIONS

Caution should be exercised in the use of 10-0 polypropylene suture to fixate an IOL to the sclera in children, and an alternative material or size (such as 9-0 polypropylene) should be considered.

Implantation of the Artisan iris reconstruction intraocular lens in 5 children with aphakia and partial aniridia caused by perforating ocular trauma

PURPOSE

To describe the long-term clinical results of the implantation of the Artisan iris reconstruction IOL in 5 eyes of 5 children for aphakia and partial aniridia attributable to penetrating ocular trauma.

METHODS

The charts of 5 children were retrospectively reviewed. The nature and the extent of injury; age at IOL implantation; visual, refractive, and cosmetic outcome; endothelial cell density; and complications and subsequent surgical interventions were evaluated.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up period was 8.9 years (range, 4.9-12.4). Mean age at implantation of the Artisan iris reconstruction IOL was 9.5 years (range, 7.7-12.7). Visual acuity improved in 2 of 5 eyes, remained stable in 2 of 5 eyes, and decreased in 1 of 5 eyes. Complaints of photophobia were reduced, and a satisfactory cosmetic outcome was achieved in 3 of 5 patients. The mean spherical equivalent refraction error at last follow-up was -4.0 D. Mean endothelial cell loss when compared with the healthy fellow eye was 42%. Two cases were complicated by partial luxation of the IOL, one case by persistent anterior uveitis and secondary glaucoma. One eye developed a retinal detachment.

CONCLUSIONS

The Artisan iris reconstruction IOL is a treatment option for the treatment of aniridia and aphakia due to penetrating ocular trauma in children. We emphasize the high-risk characteristics of the eyes treated and the importance of careful patient selection in the outcome of the implantation of the Artisan iris reconstruction IOL.

Visual rehabilitation by scleral fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses in amblyopic aphakic children

Background/Aims:

To report on the outcome of scleral fixated posterior chamber intraocular lens (S-IOL) implantation in aphakic amblyopic children after 1 year.

Methods:

Amblyopic children with aphakia after traumatic and congenital cataract surgery unsuitable for spectacle or contact lens correction were operated with an anterior vitrectomy and inside-out double thread scleral fixation of an Alcon CZ70BD pcIOL. Refraction and vision was compared after 12 months.

Results:

From 2001-2006, 23 S-IOLs were implanted in 16 children (19 unilateral, 4 bilateral) aged 2-16 years: 10 eyes with traumatic [Group A], and 13 eyes with congenital cataracts including 3 eyes with ectopia lentis [Group B]. Preoperative UCVA compared to postoperative UCVA improved in 9/10 eyes in group A and 12/13 eyes in group B. Preoperative BCVA compared to postoperative UCVA improved in 9/10 eyes (90 percent) in group A and 4/13 eyes (31 percent) in group B. Mean age at surgery in group A was 6.8 years (1.5-16yrs) and in group B 10.5 years (4-16 years). More than one year elapsed in 2/10 eyes of group A and 8/13 eyes in group B. Postoperative refraction was within 2.0D of target in 17/23 eyes. Complications included temporary IOP rise in 2, vitreous hemorrhage in 1, and iris capture in 3 eyes. Two eyes required revision surgery.

Conclusion:

S-IOL implantation may be beneficial for aphakic children lacking other means for visual rehabilitation to improve vision. Amblyopia may be improved in most trauma, but only few congenital cataract eyes.

Traumatic pediatric cataract: a decade of follow-up after Artisan aphakia intraocular lens implantation

PURPOSE

To describe the long-term clinical outcome of Artisan((R)) aphakia intraocular lens (IOL; Ophtec, Groningen, The Netherlands) implantation in five aphakic eyes of five children, without capsular support, after cataract extraction following penetrating ocular trauma.

METHODS

The charts of the five children were retrospectively reviewed. The data collected included follow-up time, nature of injury, age at cataract extraction and IOL implantation, visual outcome, endothelial cell counts, complications, and subsequent surgical interventions.

RESULTS

Average follow-up was 11.0 years (range, 8.0-14.6 years). All eyes had a corneal perforation with various degrees of anterior segment injury. Mean patient age at lens extraction was 7.8 years (range, 5.6-10.2 years). Mean age at Artisan aphakia IOL implantation was 7.9 years (range, 5.7-10.2 years). The best spectacle-corrected visual acuity at last follow-up was 20/40 or better in four eyes. Mean endothelial cell loss compared with the healthy fellow eye was 40%. No patients experienced IOL dislocation, corneal decompensation, chronic anterior uveitis, cystoid macular edema, or iris atrophy. One eye had a retinal detachment 19 months after primary injury and needed vitreoretinal surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The Artisan aphakia IOL offers a useful alternative for correction of traumatic childhood aphakia. Although we only have results of a small number of patients, taking into account our long follow-up period, we feel that implantation of the Artisan aphakia IOL can be considered a treatment option in aphakic eyes of children that lack capsular support due to trauma.

Long-term results of scleral fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses in children

PURPOSE

To evaluate the long-term results of transsclerally fixated posterior chamber intraocular lenses (SF-PCIOLs) in children without adequate capsular support.

DESIGN

Noncomparative interventional case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty-five eyes of 23 children who underwent primary (6 eyes) or secondary (19 eyes) implantation of SF-PCIOLs. The primary cases included those undergoing surgery for lens subluxation due to Marfan's syndrome, and secondary cases included those after surgery for congenital cataract (3 eyes) or traumatic cataract (16 eyes). All eyes lacked adequate capsular support and, in secondary cases, manifested contact lens intolerance.

INTERVENTION

Ab externo transscleral fixation of PCIOLs.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Visual acuity (VA), IOL position, and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

The mean age of patients at the time of SF-PCIOL implantation was 79+/-20.2 months (range, 33-120). The mean duration of follow-up after surgery was 81.1+/-46.2 months (range, 12-144). Best-corrected VA improved postoperatively in 12 eyes (48%) by >1 Snellen line. The main cause of reduced vision was corneal and retinal pathologies and amblyopia. Complications included transient intraocular hemorrhage in 13 eyes (52%), transient choroidal effusion in 2 eyes (8%), late endophthalmitis in 1 eye (4%), retinal detachment in 1 eye (4%), and late IOL dislocation due to breakage of polypropylene sutures after 7 to 10 years in 6 eyes (24%).

CONCLUSION

Scleral fixation of PCIOLs can be visually rewarding in selected cases, but there is a high rate of complications during a long-term follow-up.

Scleral fixation without conjunctival dissection

Scleral fixation of intraocular lenses (IOLs) and adjunctive capsular devices can be performed under the protection of a scleral flap. A modification of this technique uses a scleral pocket initiated through a peripheral clear corneal incision. Full-thickness passage of a double-armed suture through the scleral pocket and conjunctiva, with subsequent retrieval of the suture ends through the external incision for tying, facilitates scleral fixation. This modification offers several advantages over traditional methods: It eliminates the need for conjunctival dissection and scleral cauterization; a scleral pocket affords a greater surface area for suture placement through an ab externo or ab interno approach; retrieval of the sutures through the external corneal incision and subsequent tying allows the suture knot to pass under the protective roof of the scleral pocket, negating the need for suture knot rotation; and the architecture of the scleral pocket eliminates the need for sutured wound closure. Suture retrieval and scleral fixation through a corneoscleral pocket offers a refined method for fixation of IOLs and other intraocular adjunctive devices.

Scleral fixation using suture retrieval through a scleral tunnel

Scleral fixation of intraocular lenses (IOLs) can be performed under the protection of a scleral flap. A variation of this technique uses a scleral tunnel for suture fixation to the eye. Passage of a double-armed suture through the roof of the scleral tunnel with subsequent retrieval of the suture ends through the external incision for tying facilitates scleral fixation. This modification offers several advantages: A scleral tunnel is easier to construct than a triangular flap and does not require suture closure. It affords a greater surface area for suture placement through an ab externo or ab interno approach. Tying each suture allows the suture knot to pass under the roof of the tunnel, eliminating the need for suture knot rotation. Suture retrieval and scleral fixation through a scleral tunnel incision offers a simplified and elegant method for fixation of IOLs and other intraocular adjunctive devices.

Techniques of intraocular lens suspension in the absence of capsular/zonular support

Implantation of intraocular lenses has become the standard of care in the aphakic state. Ideally, the lens is placed in the capsular bag, which affords stable fixation at a position closest to the nodal point of the eye. However, there will always be instances where this will not be possible. Congenital weakness of the lens zonules in various conditions, trauma, and surgical complications of cataract surgery are just some examples. In this article, we review the methods that have been devised to allow intraocular lens implantation in the absence of capsular or zonular support. These include anterior chamber angle and iris-fixated lenses, as well as posterior chamber iris- and scleral-sutured lenses. The various lenses are described, and the techniques involved, advantages and disadvantages, complications, and results of each method are discussed. It is hoped that this article will provide a comprehensive overview of ways to deal with a problem that can still result in a very good visual outcome for the patient. This is particularly relevant given the many recent developments and refinements of methods in implanting intraocular lenses.

Pediatric transscleral sutured intraocular lenses: efficacy and safety in 43 eyes followed an average of 3 years

PURPOSE

To report longer term results of transscleral sutured intraocular lens (TSSIOL) implantation in a sizable cohort of aphakic children, who were not suitable for contact lens wear and lacked adequate capsular support for sulcus fixation of an intraocular lens.

METHODS

Clinical outcome data were collated by retrospective review after surgery on 43 consecutive eyes in 32 aphakic children (mean age at implantation = 10 years; 33% < or = age 7 years). Outcome measures included visual acuity, postoperative refractive error, postoperative complications, and rate of reoperation. Follow-up averaged 37 months.

RESULTS

Visual acuity improved after surgery in 70% (30) of operated eyes (in 69% or 22/32 children). Fifty-one percent (22/43 eyes) improved by two lines or more. No patient suffered a loss of acuity or exacerbation of preexisting amblyopia. Postoperative refraction was within +/-2.0 D of the predicted refraction in 93% (40/43) of eyes. Complications, with the exception of one eye (2%), were minor/transient and resolved in the first week after surgery. Complications included small hyphemas (7%, 3/43 eyes), vitreous hemorrhage (5%, 2/43 eyes), and ocular hypertension or hypotony (5%). Two eyes (5%) exhibited episodes of iris capture of the IOL optic, one of which (2%, 1/43) eventually necessitated reoperation for IOL exchange. No retinal detachments or other retinal complications were encountered.

CONCLUSION

TSSIOL implantation appears to be a safe and effective method for correcting aphakia in pediatric eyes that lack adequate capsular support. Safety over a follow-up period longer than the average 3 years reported here remains to be determined. The surgery is more difficult to perform than capsular-bag or sulcus implantation and potentially carries greater risks.

Comparison of secondary implantation of flexible open-loop anterior chamber and scleral-fixated posterior chamber intraocular lenses

PURPOSE

To analyze and compare the outcomes and complication rates of secondary implantation of flexible, open-loop, anterior chamber intraocular lenses (AC IOLs) and single-piece, scleral-fixated, posterior chamber IOLs (PC IOLs).

SETTING

Departments of Ophthalmology, Gaziantep University Medical Faculty, Research Hospital, Gaziantep, and Inönü University Medical Faculty, Research Hospital, Malatya, Turkey.

METHODS

This study comprised 124 eyes of 113 aphakic patients (61 men, 52 women) with insufficient capsule support who had secondary IOL implantation from January 1997 to June 2001. In Group 1 (n = 73 eyes), a flexible, open-loop AC IOL was implanted and in Group 2 (n = 51 eyes), a single-piece, scleral-fixated PC IOL. The mean follow-up was 34 months (range 6 to 53 months) and took place at several different clinical settings. The mean interval between the initial cataract operation and secondary IOL implantation was 63 months (range 6 months to 12 years). The postoperative outcomes, safety, efficacy, and complication rates were analyzed, and the preoperative and postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuities (BSCVAs) were compared.

RESULTS

The postoperative mean BSCVA was 20/34.8 +/- 45.2 (SD) in Group 1 and 20/32.1 +/- 33.7 in Group 2; the difference was not significant (P =.718). A BSCVA of 20/40 or better was achieved in 62 eyes (84.9%) in Group 1 and 45 eyes (88.2%) in Group 2. A BSCVA of 20/25 or better was achieved in 40 eyes (54.8%) and 33 eyes (64.7%), respectively. The difference between the 2 groups was not significant (P =.472). Complications occurred in 25 eyes (34.2%) in Group 1 and 13 eyes (25.5%) in Group 2 (P >.05). The most frequent complications in Group 1 were early transient corneal edema, intraocular pressure elevation, cystoid macular edema, hyphema, secondary glaucoma, and iris capture or pupil decentration and in Group 2, suture erosion, a tilted or decentered IOL, fibrin reaction, and vitreous prolapse into the anterior chamber.

CONCLUSIONS

The AC IOLs and PC IOLs were safe and effective for secondary implantation to correct aphakia. Secondary implantation of the scleral-fixated PC IOL seemed to provide a more favorable outcome and a lower complication rate than the open-loop AC IOL in complicated cataract cases with inadequate capsule and zonular support. As scleral-fixated PC IOL implantation is technically more difficult than AC IOL implantation, the decisive factor in choosing a secondary IOL is surgical experience. Long-term comparison of both techniques is required.

Scleral fixation of secondary foldable multifocal intraocular lens implants in children and young adults

OBJECTIVE

To assess the feasibility of transscleral fixation of a foldable, multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) as an alternative form of optical correction to monofocal IOL implantation in aphakic children and young adults intolerant of contact lenses in the absence of sufficient capsular support.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, nonrandomized, comparative trial.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty-six eyes of 26 unilateral aphakic patients in the age group 6 to 29 years (mean, 13.2 years) at two university institutions with more than 6 months of follow-up.

INTERVENTIONS

Anterior vitrectomy and secondary scleral-fixated foldable IOL implantation were performed in all cases. In 12 patients, a zonal-progressive optic multifocal IOL (Array SA40-N; Allergan, Irvine, CA) was implanted, whereas 14 patients received a monofocal IOL (SI40NB; Allergan). The follow-up ranged from 6 to 20 months (mean, 13.4 months).

RESULTS

Preoperative patient demographics, mean postoperative spherical equivalent, astigmatism, and uncorrected and best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA) were similar in the two groups. After surgery, BCDVA within one Snellen line of the preoperative BCDVA was achieved by 83% of the multifocal group and by 85% of the monofocal group. Patients with a multifocal IOL achieved a significantly better uncorrected near visual acuity than patients with monofocal IOL (019 versus 0.34; P = 0.02). With distance correction only, mean near visual acuity was 0.25 versus 0.44 (P = 0.01). Best-corrected near visual acuity was approximately 0.18 for both groups (P = 0.77), with +1.32 diopters (D) for the multifocal group and +2.54 D for the monofocal group (P = 0.001). Spectacle dependency differed significantly between the two groups, with 10 patients (71%) of the monofocal group commonly requiring an additional plus add for near tasks compared with two patients (16%) in the multifocal group (P = 0.001). The Lang test showed stereopsis to be superior in the multifocal group (P = 0.04). Complications encountered were: pressure increase in three eyes (11.5%), which was permanent in one case (3.8%); marked postoperative anterior chamber reaction in four eyes (15.4%); IOL decentration in five eyes (19.2%), one (3.8%) requiring surgical reintervention; and suture erosion through the conjunctiva in two eyes (7.4%). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Secondary scleral-fixated multifocal IOL implantation was as successful as monofocal IOL implantation in achieving BCDVA comparable with preoperative BCDVA. Moreover, stereopsis, uncorrected and distance-corrected near visual acuities were better in the multifocal patients than in the monofocal eyes. Multifocal IOL seems a viable alternative to monofocal scleral fixation in children and young patients with contact lens-intolerant aphakia.

Pediatric secondary lens implantation in the absence of capsular support

PURPOSE

To describe and evaluate alternate techniques for implanting intraocular lenses in children in the absence of adequate capsular support for traditional lens implantation.

METHODS

Postoperative results of 18 eyes with posterior chamber intraocular lenses (PCIOLs) sutured to the ciliary sulcus and 10 eyes implanted with anterior chamber intraocular lenses (ACIOLs) were reviewed. Visual outcomes were divided into 2 groups: onset of aphakia during the critical period of visual development (< or = 9 years) and onset after the critical period (> 9 years). Visual outcomes and complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Average follow-up was 10.3 months in the PCIOL group and 49.2 months in the ACIOL group. Eyes that became aphakic after the critical period of visual development achieved better overall final visual acuity than the eyes that became aphakic during the critical period; indeed, the eyes that became aphakic during the critical period did not achieve significantly improved vision. There were no complications in the PCIOL group. Complications in the ACIOL group included corectopia, haptic migration through the operative wound requiring removal, and pigment deposits on the lens.

CONCLUSIONS

PCIOLs sutured to the ciliary sulcus offer a superior option to ACIOLs for correction of childhood aphakia in children lacking capsular support. ACIOLs had a high rate of serious complications (10%) in this small series. Secondary implantation with transsclerally sutured PCIOLs should be considered in complicated cases when more conservative options have been exhausted.

Intra-ocular lens implantation in children

Intra-ocular lens (IOL) implantation in a growing eye of a young child brings several problems unique to this age group. Better understanding of the rate of refractive growth in children's pseudophakic eyes may help predicting future refractions in these eyes more accurately. Opacification of the posterior capsule, if remained intact, interferes with visual rehabilitation in children. Primary posterior capsulectomy and anterior vitrectomy provides the clarity of visual axis. Optical rehabilitation of children with unilateral aphakia is usually problematic. Posterior chamber IOLs are preferred to anterior-chamber IOLs for secondary implantation. In the absence of adequate capsular support and contact lens intolerance, a scleral-fixated IOL can be implanted. Scleral fixation of a posterior chamber IOL has encouraging short-term results but the long-term risks are not known yet. Intra-ocular lens implantation in infants is associated with major complications and is not recommended at present. The occurrence of open angle glaucoma is a sight-threatening late complication of pediatric cataract surgery. Intra-ocular lens implantation plays a protective role against aphakic glaucoma in children.