Contact lens management of infantile aphakia

Abstract

The visual outcomes for infants 18 months or younger with cataracts have improved dramatically over the past couple of decades. Earlier detection of infantile cataract and prompt surgical removal-with subsequent visual rehabilitation with contact lenses-mean that these patients now have a much better visual prognosis. Advances in contact lens technology have led to a significantly higher success rate with contact lenses and this has been a major factor in improving the visual outcomes for aphakic infants. This review outlines the contact lens management of infantile cataract, including a detailed analysis of the various contact lens options available and a discussion regarding the important factors that can cause issues with contact lens wear and affect the overall visual rehabilitation of the infant.