ROP Screening
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is a sight-threatening disorder affecting premature infants with low birth weight. It results from abnormal retinal vascular development due to oxygen therapy and immature retinal blood vessels. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial in preventing vision loss.
Who Needs ROP Screening?
ROP screening is recommended for:
– Infants born at <34 weeks of gestation
– Birth weight <1500 grams
– Infants with prolonged oxygen therapy or unstable clinical conditions
Screening Protocol
At United Super Speciality Hospital, our expert ophthalmologists follow international guidelines for ROP screening:
– Initial Screening: Conducted at 4 weeks postnatal age or 31 weeks postmenstrual age, whichever is earlier.
– Dilated Fundus Examination: Using indirect ophthalmoscopy with a 28D/30D lens after pupillary dilation with cycloplegic drops.
– Classification of ROP: Based on the International Classification of ROP (ICROP), assessing zone, stage, and plus disease.
– Follow-Up: Frequency depends on severity; mild ROP requires close monitoring, while severe cases demand immediate intervention.
Treatment Options
Timely treatment can prevent blindness and includes:
– Laser Photocoagulation: Standard treatment for threshold ROP, targeting avascular retina.
– Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Therapy: Effective in aggressive posterior ROP (APROP) cases.
– Surgical Management: Vitrectomy or scleral buckling in stage 4 or 5 ROP.