Long-Term Outcome of Nd:YAG Laser Posterior Capsulotomy in Children: Procedural Strategies and Visual Outcome.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the long-term outcome of neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy after cataract surgery in children.

DESIGN: Retrospective case series.

METHODS: Electronic medical records of pediatric patients who underwent Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy between January 1, 2008, and October 31, 2012, and followed up for more than 5 years were reviewed.

RESULTS: Thirty-one eyes of 25 patients were included. Only compliant patients assessed during slit-lamp examination and anterior segment photography underwent laser treatment. The mean age at the time of initial laser treatment was 9.04 ± 3.51 years (minimum 56 months), and the mean interval between cataract surgery and initial laser treatment was 28.1 ± 22.1 months. Posterior capsular openings were successfully made in 26 (83.9%) eyes with a single attempt and in 3 (9.7%) eyes with a second attempt. Overall success rate was 93.5%. The logMAR best-corrected visual acuity was significantly improved from 0.61 ± 0.36 to 0.19 ± 0.25 at 1 month posttreatment (P < .0001) and well maintained, at least for 5 years of follow-up, without serious complications. The recurrence of posterior capsular opacity was observed in 7 (24.1%) eyes, which was successfully managed by repeated laser procedure or surgical capsulectomy.

CONCLUSIONS: By selecting compliant patients and repeated attempts, Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy can be successfully performed in a pediatric population without serious complications. Laser treatment is also a good option for managing recurred posterior capsular opacity. Restored visual acuity can be maintained for at least 5 years.