Retinopathy of prematurity

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Retrolental fibroplasia; ROP

Early treatment has been shown to improve a baby’s chances for normal vision. Treatment should start within 72 hours of the eye exam.

Some babies with “plus disease” need immediate treatment.

Treatment may include cryotherapy (freezing) to prevent the spread of abnormal blood vessels.

Laser therapy (photocoagulation) may be used to prevent complications of advanced ROP. The laser therapy stops the abnormal blood vessels from growing. It can be performed in the nursery using portable equipment. To be effective, it must be done before scarring and detachment occurs

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Surgery is needed if the retina detaches. Surgical procedures continue to improve, but may not result in good vision.

Most premature infants with ROP recover with no lasting visual problems. Many premature infants with slight problems in retinal blood vessel growth have the vessels return to normal without treatment. Most infants with mild ROP can be expected to recover completely.

About 1 out of 10 infants with early changes will develop more severe retinal disease. Severe ROP may lead to significant vision problems or blindness. The most important factor in the outcome is early detection and treatment.

Complications may include severe nearsightedness and blindness.

Most infants with severe vision loss related to ROP have other complications of prematurity and require a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation.

Review Date: 05/04/2011
Reviewed By: Daniel E. Bustos, MD, MS, Private Practice specializing in Comprehensive Ophthalmology in Eugene, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).