Pars plana lensectomy for the management of ectopia lentis in children

Background: Nontraumatic ectopia lentis arises from a variety of inherited disorders. It may also occur as an isolated abnormality in an otherwise healthy individual. Surgical intervention is necessary when lens subluxation causes a significant refractive error resulting in amblyopia. Patients and Methods: We report the results of pars plana lensectomy for nontraumatic ectopia lentis in 24 eyes of 13 patients and provide data on the merits of this surgical approach. Results: Postoperative visual acuity was 6/9 or better in 17 of 22 eyes and 6/12 or better in 19 of 22 eyes. Other than contact lens-related problems, there were no perioperative or postoperative complications. Conclusions: Pars plana lensectomy is a safe, effective procedure for the management of ectopia lentis. Visual outcomes are excellent. These findings should encourage earlier surgery when indicated to prevent amblyopia and improve visual acuity.