Eligibility For Paediatric Cataract Treatment

Determining whether a child is eligible for paediatric cataract treatment involves a few key considerations. Here’s what doctors typically look at:

• Visually Significant Cataract: The cataract must be causing noticeable vision problems. This usually means the cataract is larger than 3 mm in the central visual axis or has no clear zones, making vision blurry or unclear.
• Age and Timing: Timing is crucial for treating congenital cataracts. For a cataract in just one eye, surgery might be done as early as 4 weeks old. If both eyes are affected, surgery is usually done by 6 weeks of age to prevent long-term vision issues.
• Presence of Nystagmus or Strabismus: If a child shows signs of eye movement disorders (nystagmus) or misaligned eyes (strabismus), it might indicate the presence of significant cataracts that need surgery.

How is Paediatric Cataract Treatment Performed?

Doctors often opt for Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS) when treating children with cataracts. This method is effective and promotes quicker recovery.

Here’s a step-by-step overview of how the procedure is carried out:

• The child is given anaesthesia to ensure they feel no pain or discomfort during the surgery.
• The surgeon makes a small incision in the eye, typically around 5 to 6 mm in width.
• Through this incision, the cloudy lens is carefully removed.
• The lens may be extracted in one piece or after being softened.
• The surgeon then places a clear artificial lens inside the eye.
• In some cases, the lens may be placed at a later stage, depending on the child’s age.
• The incision is left to self-seal, or tiny stitches may be used if necessary.
• Most children can go home the same day.
• Recovery begins quickly with the help of prescribed eye drops and plenty of rest.
• The doctor arranges follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and provide guidance for the next steps.

How To Prepare For Paediatric Cataract Treatment?

Preparing for your child’s cataract surgery involves several steps for their safety and comfort:

• Pre-operative Assessment: A thorough evaluation that includes eye tests and blood work.
• Medication Management: Discuss with your doctor any current medications your child takes to see if they need adjustments before surgery.
• Fasting Instructions: Follow strict guidelines about when your child should stop eating or drinking before the operation.
• Support System: Ensure a family member or caregiver is there for emotional support and assistance during the surgery day.

Post-Procedure Care After Paediatric Cataract Treatment

After the surgery, there are several important steps to follow for smooth recovery:

• Eye Shielding: Use a shield or patch to protect your child’s eye from being rubbed accidentally.
• Medication Compliance: Administer any prescribed eye drops diligently to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled visits with your ophthalmologist to monitor healing progress.
• Vision Therapy: If needed, engage in patching or other therapies to address amblyopia (lazy eye).
• Monitoring for Complications: Be attentive for signs like unusual redness, swelling, or discharge which could indicate issues like infection or glaucoma.
• Nutritional Support: Make sure your child maintains a balanced diet rich in nutrients essential for recovery and overall health.