Retinopathy of prematurity is a serious condition that can occur in the eyes of babies who cannot complete the development process before birth, and early diagnosis and treatment is of great importance. In this article, you can find detailed information about retinopathy of prematurity and its treatment methods.

What is Retinopathy of Prematurity?

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a disease that occurs as a result of abnormal development of blood vessels in the retina of the eye in prematurely born babies. The retina is a light-sensitive layer located at the back of the eye where vision occurs. ROP usually occurs in babies born before 31 weeks of gestation or with a birth weight of less than 1,250 grams.

Symptoms of Retinopathy of Prematurity

ROP usually does not show obvious visible symptoms and can only be detected during examinations by an ophthalmologist. Therefore, it is very important for premature babies to have regular eye examinations. Symptoms may include:

  • Abnormal eye movements
  • Weakening of visual reflexes
  • White pupil (leucocoria)
  • Strabismus

Retinopathy of Prematurity Treatment Methods

Regular Eye Examination

Premature babies should have eye exams in the first few weeks after birth and at regular intervals thereafter. Early diagnosis is of great importance in the treatment process. If ROP progresses, early intervention can be provided.

Laser Treatment

Laser is applied to stop the growth of abnormal vessels in the peripheral part of the retina. It prevents retinal detachment by stopping abnormal vascular development without damaging healthy areas of the retina.

Cryotherapy

A cold probe is applied to the outer surface of the eye to destroy abnormal vessels by freezing them. It can be used as an alternative to laser treatment and protects the retina and stops abnormal vascular development.

Anti-VEGF Drugs

Medicines injected into the eye protect the retina by stopping abnormal vascular growth. It can be used as an alternative or complement to laser and cryotherapy. It controls vascular growth.

Surgical intervention

In advanced cases of ROP, surgical interventions such as vitrectomy may be performed to correct retinal detachment. It helps prevent vision loss by repairing retinal detachment.

Things to Consider in the Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity

  • Premature babies should have regular eye examinations and babies at risk of ROP should be closely monitored.
  • After treatment, babies should be monitored regularly and additional treatments should be applied when necessary.
  • Families should be made aware of their babies’ eye health and the importance of eye examinations should be emphasized.

Retinopathy of prematurity can be controlled with correct and timely treatment and the eyesight of babies can be protected. Ophthalmologist Op. Dr. With his expertise and experience in this field, Ömer TAKEŞ protects the eye health of premature babies and offers the best treatment methods. You can contact our clinic to get more information about retinopathy of prematurity and other eye diseases and to make an appointment.