DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjmcr.2025.v13i11.006

Pages: 2680-2682

Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic and surgical management of non-infectious post-uveitic cataracts in children and to analyze visual and anatomical outcomes following phacoemulsification with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Ophthalmology A, CHU Ibn Sina, Rabat, from June 2015 to June 2023. All children under 16 years of age diagnosed with non-infectious chronic uveitis (unilateral or bilateral) and who underwent cataract surgery were included. Epidemiological, clinical, surgical, and postoperative data were collected and analyzed. Results: Seven patients (10 eyes) were included. The mean age was 7.6 years, with a male predominance (57.1%). Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) was the most frequent etiology (57%), followed by Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) syndrome (28%). All eyes underwent phacoemulsification with IOL implantation (90% in-the-bag). Posterior synechiae were observed in 70% of cases. Posterior capsulotomy and anterior vitrectomy were performed in 50% and 80% of eyes, respectively. Mean intraocular pressure was 13 mmHg preoperatively. Postoperative improvement of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA ≥ 1/10) was obtained in 73% of eyes. Early postoperative inflammation occurred in 40% of cases, and late complications (macular edema, papillitis, vasculitis) in 50%. The mean follow-up was 6.5 months. Conclusion: Phacoemulsification with IOL implantation in pediatric post-uveitic cataract is feasible and effective when intraocular inflammation is strictly controlled for at least three months prior to surgery. The visual outcome depends on the etiology, pre-existing ocular damage, and rigorous postoperative management. A standardized protocol for pre-, intra-, and postoperative inflammation control is essential to optimize prognosis.