Visual outcome of unilateral traumatic cataract.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the visual outcome of a series of patients presenting with unilateral traumatic cataract.

STUDY DESIGN

Observational study.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY

Ophthalmology Department, Liaquat University Hospital, Hyderabad, from July 2007 to June 2010.

METHODOLOGY

Analysis included data of 41 patients (31 males and 10 females) with unilateral traumatic cataract. Data regarding demographics, causative agent, clinical course and outcome in terms of best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was retrieved from the patients' files in hospital record. Data was expressed as frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation.

RESULTS

There was a male predilection with a male to female ratio of 3.1:1. The age group more frequently affected was 5 - 14 years (58.5%). Commonest causative agent was trauma with wooden stick in 13 eyes (31.7%) followed by thorn in 9 eyes (22%) and stone in 7 eyes (17.1%). Pre-existing posterior capsular defects were observed intraoperatively in 6 eyes. Posterior capsular opacification was evident in 10 eyes (24%). Best corrected visual acuity of 6/18 or more at 6 months was achieved in 29 eyes (70.8%). Duration between injury and cataract surgery did not affect the final visual outcome of traumatic cataract patients.

CONCLUSION

Patients with traumatic cataract if managed appropriately can have best possible visual outcome. Young males are commonly affected. Taking protective measures in sports and work as well as patient education can avoid ocular trauma and traumatic cataract formation.