Evaluation of Open Globe Injuries of Children in the Last 12 Years

PURPOSE: To determine whether advances in vitreoretinal surgical techniques developed over the last decade have translated into improved anatomic and visual outcomes. METHODS: Retrospective review of children under the age of 18 who were treated for open globe injuries at a children's hospital between January 1990 and December 2002. RESULTS: The authors identified 59 open globe injuries seen at a single center in the past 12 years. Thirty eyes (51%) required secondary surgery after primary closure. Twelve patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), and all presented with an initial visual acuity of count fingers or worse. Seven (58%) had an improvement in vision to 20/200 or better, and 6 (50%) of these patients achieved a visual acuity of 20/50 or better. CONCLUSION: Improvements in outcome compared to previous studies may signify refinement in technique and an increased utility of PPV over the last 10 years.