Cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation in children with uveitis.

AIM To evaluate the long term results of cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation (IOL) in children with uveitis. METHODS The study included 10 eyes in seven children (age 3.5-10 years, mean 6.5 years). The cataract surgery included capsulorhexis of the anterior and the posterior capsule, anterior vitrectomy in some eyes, and implantation of a heparin surface modified (HSM) poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) IOL into the capsular bag. RESULTS Follow up periods ranged from 1 to 5 years. Best corrected visual acuity after surgery reached 20/50-20/20 in all but two eyes. Opacities or membranes requiring reoperation developed in seven eyes. Glaucoma developed in three eyes after the cataract operation. CONCLUSION These results suggest that implantation of a HSM PMMA IOL is an alternative to correct aphakia also in children with uveitis.