Objective: To evaluate the results of cataract extraction with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in children.
Methods: Cataract extracapsular extraction with anterior vitrectomy and IOL implantation was performed on 104 eyes of 64 children with congenital cataract aged 1.5 - 14 years old. The visual acuity and possible complications were followed up for a mean period of 22 months.
Results: After operation 86.4% patients were relieved from blindness, 62.7% obtained corrected vision >or= 0.3, binocular vision and stereopsis were restored in 41.8% and 30.6% respectively. In 3 eyes secondary cataract developed and in 5 eyes slight iris capture occurred.
Conclusions: Cataract extraction with anterior vitrectomy and IOL implantation is effective in pediatric cataract treatment. Most patients get remarkable improvement in visual acuity and visual function with minimal complications after surgery. The influence factors on the postoperative visual function need further study.