LASER CAPSULOTOMY IN CHILDREN WITH SECONDARY CATARACTS: INDIVIDUALIZING THE APPROACH BASED ON CLINICAL AND OPHTHALMOLOGICAL DATA

Аннотация

This study evaluates the effectiveness of an individualized approach to Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy in pediatric patients with secondary cataracts. A total of 135 children (270 eyes), aged 8 months to 13 years (mean age: 6.1 ± 2.3 years), were examined after previous cataract surgery. Laser parameters were selected based on posterior capsule fibrosis density, age, and intraocular lens (IOL) type. At the 12-month follow-up, 89.6% (242 eyes) retained a clear visual axis and 83.3% (225 eyes) showed improvement by at least 2 Snellen lines. Complication rate was reduced to 7.8%. The individualized method enhances safety and visual outcomes in pediatric laser treatment. Keywords: secondary cataract, pediatric ophthalmology, Nd:YAG laser, capsulotomy, individualized treatment, intraocular lens, laser safety Relevance Secondary cataract is one of the most common postoperative complications following pediatric cataract extraction, particularly in children under 6 years old. Incidence rates can reach up to 75–85%, and if left untreated, the condition may lead to irreversible amblyopia. Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy is the primary treatment, but pediatric patients require specific considerations due to their ocular anatomy and limited cooperation. Standard laser settings are often insufficient, increasing the risk of complications such as intraocular pressure spikes, synechiae, and vitreous prolapse. This highlights the need for a more tailored approach based on clinical parameters like age, fibrotic density, and IOL type. Implementing an individualized strategy could improve visual rehabilitation and reduce adverse outcomes. This study addresses the gap in standardized pediatric laser protocols and provides evidence for adjusting laser settings according to specific patient characteristics, offering an important step toward optimized pediatric ophthalmic care. Aim: To develop and clinically validate an individualized protocol for Nd:YAG 126 SCIENCE AND INNOVATION IN THE EDUCATION SYSTEM International scientific-online conference laser capsulotomy in children with secondary cataracts based on clinical and ophthalmological factors.