New model predicts long-term visual outcomes in children with bilateral congenital cataracts

Early cataract extraction, timely intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, and the absence of nystagmus at follow-up are key factors in achieving better long-term visual outcomes for children with bilateral congenital cataracts, according to a study.

The retrospective study analyzed 194 pediatric patients with bilateral congenital cataracts treated. Researchers assessed the likelihood of achieving a favorable BCVA outcome—defined as a BCVA below 0.22 Log MAR—by the final follow-up. The model, built using Cox proportional hazards regression and validated through cross-validation, showed reliable predictive accuracy, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.712 and a C-index of 0.797.

Key predictors of successful outcomes included cataract extraction before 6 months of age (HR 1.80), IOL implantation before 31 months (HR 3.70), and absence of nystagmus at the last follow-up (HR 11.20). The model’s nomogram and contour plot provide a visual aid for clinicians in assessing individual patient risk, supporting personalized treatment planning.

Reference
Zhang L, Zhao C, He M, et al. Development of a prognostic model for predicting long-term visual acuity after cataract surgery in children with bilateral congenital cataracts: a single centre retrospective, observational study. BMC Ophthalmol. 2024;24(1):466. doi: 10.1186/s12886-024-03730-0. PMID: 39448939; PMCID: PMC11515551.