Unilateral Cataracts: Is Successful Amblyopia Therapy Compatible with Binocular Vision?

Abstract

Background and Purpose

Two case studies are used to illustrate the importance of balancing the postsurgical achievement of high-level visual acuity with the acquisition of stereopsis in cases of unilateral cataract. Traditional management will be reviewed and limited occlusion therapy will be discussed. A structured occlusion regime that allows for increased binocular opportunity is promoted for use upon cataract removal.

Patients and Method

Two cases are reviewed in which a unilateral cataract was removed and a full-time intensive patching schedule was followed.

Results

Both patients reviewed have no measurable depth perception and are bothered by intractable diplopia.

Conclusion

Promoting good visual acuity in unilateral cataract management is the primary objective. Good visual acuity can be achieved with reduction of occlusion intensity in order to allow for some form of binocularity to develop, lowering the risk for strabismus and intractable diplopia.

• unilateral infantile cataract
• limited occlusion schedule
• amblyopia
• binocular development