What you need to do premature babies?

It is of utmost importance to refer premature babies to an ophthalmologist on time. Follow the 30 day strategy. These examinations could save your patient sight. Hence, prompt and timely referral is warranted.

Sequelae of Retinopathy of prematurity

Sequelae

-Refractive errors

-Squint

-Amblyopia (LAZY EYE)

-Retinal Detachment

- Glaucoma

Follow Up is necessary for Retinopathy of prematurity

Once treated, lifelong follow up(yearly) is mandatory. All other premature infants irrespective of having ROP yearly follow up till the age of 5 years is advisable to rule out sequelae.

Treatment for Retinopathy of prematurity

The treatment in the form of lasers,intravitreal anti-VEGF injections or surgery is planned to reduce the chances of unfavorable disease outcomes. Mild forms of ROP may resolve on their own without any active intervention. Severe forms of the disease on the other hand may need medical treatment as long as it is limited to stage 3. Surgical intervention is necessary once the disease reaches stage 4 or 5.

How Retinopathy of prematurity can detected?

An ophthalmologist (retina specialist)can detect ROP by dilated fundus examination. Indirect ophthalmoscopy is done to scan the entire retina gauge the state of retinal maturity.

When To have retinal examination ?

Follow the 30 day strategy (i.e the retinal examination should be completed at or before day – 30 life). Should preferably be done earlier (at 2 -3 weeks of birth) in very low weight babies (< 1200 gm) or in babies with very low gestational age (<28 weeks).