Clinical Outcomes of Management of Traumatic Cataract in a Tertiary Care Centre

Abstract

Background and Objectives : Ocular trauma can lead to development of cataract when natural lens is damaged by either blunt or penetrating injury. The management of traumatic cataract follows the same principle as for senile cataract but associated damage to ocular tissues and several post-operative complications may lead to suboptimal visual outcome. This study was conceptualized to evaluate the visual outcomes following management of traumatic cataracts. Material and Methods : This prospective, longitudinal study was conducted on 80 patients with traumatic cataract in tertiary care centre. Patients were managed surgically and were followed up for a period of six months. Visual acuity was measured at every follow-up visit and any post-operative complications were noted and managed, accordingly. Final visual acuity was assessed at the end of six months. Results: Maximum cases of traumatic cataract (53.75%) were observed in age group of <20 years with male to female ratio of 2.63:1. Maximum patients (92.15%) were implanted posterior chamber intraocular lens, either as a primary or secondary procedure. Uveitis and posterior capsular opacification were most common post-operative complications (30%) and 68.75% cases achieved a final visual acuity of 6/6-6/ 18 at the end of six months. Conclusions Traumatic cataract is an important cause of ocular morbidity specially in young patients. Surgery in cases of traumatic cataract can yield good visual outcomes if posterior segment is not involved and if post-operative complications are managed efficiently.