Secondary glaucoma after congenital cataract surgery

In a retrospective study, the incidence of secondary glaucoma after congenital cataract extraction was evaluated. Causes of this type of secondary glaucoma include peripheral anterior adhesions which obstruct the anterior chamber angle and prevent normal outflow of aqueous humor, pupillary block, intraocular hemorrhage, and chronic uveitis, among others. During the past 12 years 41 children (57 eyes) were operated for congenital cataract. Secondary glaucoma was found in a 1-month-old boy and a 1-month-old girl (5.3%; 3 eyes). Follow-up in most patients was less than 5 years. A similar incidence of secondary glaucoma has been reported by others. In spite of the low incidence of this complication, secondary glaucoma should be excluded during routine follow-up of these children.