Cataract Treatment in Babies

The loss of transparency of our natural lens located behind the pupil is called cataract. In this case, the quality of vision deteriorates at first, and if not intervened in the progressive process, it can advance to blindness. Although it is seen as an age-related problem, it can also be seen among newborn babies. It ranks first among the causes of preventable blindness in childhood.

Cataract Treatment in Babies

• Early diagnosis and intervention are important for treatment.

• It is generally treated surgically in babies. It is the surgery of removing the disease from the eye and inserting an artificial lens (intraocular lens). The surgical procedure is most of the time performed under general anesthesia and is done by an ophthalmologist or a pediatric eye surgeon. The surgery restores the eye’s focusing ability by removing the clouded lens.

• Surgery in babies should be performed as soon as possible. Early surgery provides the chance to maximally preserve visual development and the potential for independence. Intervention is important so as not to hinder the development of the affected eye.

• During the surgery, an artificial lens, an intraocular (IOL), is placed instead of the removed natural lens. The IOL restores the focusing function of the eye. Flexible and foldable IOLs are generally used in babies.

• After the surgery, vision correction methods such as glasses or contact lenses may be required. This can increase the quality and clarity of vision in the eye.

• After the surgery, the baby should be followed up regularly. The ophthalmologist monitors the healing and evaluates the baby’s eye development. Vision rehabilitation in babies is important to support visual development after surgery. This allows babies to explore the world with their eyes and develop their visual abilities.

Cataract Treatment in Babies

• Cataract symptoms in babies can generally be noticed by families.

• It can lead to the appearance of a white or gray spot in the eye due to the clouding in the eye’s lens. This occurs as a result of the opacification of the normally transparent lens.

• It can cause simultaneous movement problems in the baby’s eyes. Asymmetry or deviation in the eyes can be one of the symptoms in babies.

• Due to the opacification of the lens in the eye, it can cause a red spot to appear when a photograph is taken. This is caused by the reflection of the camera flash.

• They may show increased sensitivity to light. They may become restless or uncomfortable when exposed to bright lights or the sun.

• They may look at objects or faces around them in an isolated manner. They may have difficulty making eye contact.

• In babies with cataracts, a delay in responding to visual stimuli or other developmental delays may be observed. They may experience problems in visual development.

• If you notice any of the above symptoms in your baby, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist. Early diagnosis is of critical importance for correct treatment and intervention. The ophthalmologist will evaluate the baby’s eye health and initiate the necessary treatment process.