Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator following paediatric cataract surgery

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Abstract
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. METHOD A retrospective review of paediatric cataract extractions performed at Moorfields Eye Hospital between 1 January 1997 and 4 April 1999 was carried out. RESULTS Cataract 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. CONCLUSION r-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.