Paediatric cataract: challenges and complications

Initial follow-up Children with complications should be reviewed weekly until improvement is noted. The first follow-up visit for uncomplicated cases must be within 2–4 weeks after surgery. If possible, children should undergo refraction at this first postoperative visit; this minimises travelling for the parents and reduces the likelihood of missed follow-up appointments. Children undergoing cataract surgery (with or without IOL), should be dispensed spectacles within 2 weeks of cataract surgery. In older children who have undergone IOL surgery, the prescription of spectacles can be delayed until 4 weeks after surgery to allow the wound and refraction status to stabilise. (Where follow-up is uncertain, however, it is better to dispense spectacles on discharge). Remind parents about the importance of compliance with the prescribed eyedrops. Find out if they have any problems and support them to find solutions.