A team of Danish ophthalmologists successfully operated on a seven-week-old infant, Laura, to remove congenital cataracts, a condition she inherited from her mother. The surgery, performed at Rigshospitalet (The National Hospital) in Copenhagen, involved removing the clouded lenses from both of Laura’s eyes, giving her the chance to develop her vision properly.

Cataracts in newborns are rare, affecting about three to four out of every 10,000 children. If left untreated, they can severely impair vision, as the brain cannot learn to see without a clear image on the retina. Laura’s mother, who also had cataracts, experienced delayed treatment and now has poor vision, motivating her to seek early intervention for her daughter.

The operation was performed by two of Denmark’s few specialists in pediatric cataract surgery, Per Riise and Daniella Bach-Holm. They explained that operating on baby eyes is significantly more challenging than on adult eyes due to their smaller size and greater elasticity.

During the procedure, Laura was placed under general anesthesia, and her eye was held open with metal clamps. Bach-Holm made a small incision in the cornea and used a specialized vacuum device to remove the clouded lens. A lens was then inserted, and the incision was closed with self-dissolving thread.

Despite the complexities and potential for complications, Riise and Bach-Holm emphasized the rewards of their work. The ability to restore sight to children and witness the positive impact on their lives and their families is a significant motivator.

Following the surgery, Laura’s parents noticed an immediate change in her behavior. She became more curious and engaged with her surroundings, spending extended periods looking out the window. While her vision may not be perfect, the surgery has given her the opportunity to live a life where she can use her sight.