Br J Ophthalmol 2000;84:983-986
( September )
Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator following paediatric
cataract surgery
J S Mehta, G G W Adams
Strabismus and
Paediatric Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London
Correspondence to: Dr J S Mehta
jodmehta{at}hotmail.com
Accepted for publication 26 April 2000
BACKGROUND
The
use of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (r-TPA) has been
advocated in the treatment of postsurgical fibrinous membrane formation
following cataract surgery in adults. Its use in paediatric cases is
not well documented.
METHODA retrospective
review of paediatric cataract extractions performed at Moorfields Eye
Hospital between 1 January 1997 and 4 April 1999 was carried out.
RESULTSCataract
extractions were performed in 37 patients,
22 in males 15 in females. Four (9.2%) underwent intracameral
injection of 25 µg r-TPA. They were all females of Afro-Caribbean
origin. The time to injection varied from 4-14 days, mean 7.2 days.
Complete resolution of the fibrinous membrane was seen in all cases.
There were no complications by the 3 month follow up.
CONCLUSIONr-TPA may
be used safely and effectively at a dose of 25 µg for the treatment
of severe fibrinous membranes following paediatric cataract extraction.
It aided the visual recovery of the children and also allowed a reduced
regimen of topical steroid therapy to be used postoperatively.
© 2000 by British Journal of Ophthalmology
