Retinopathy of Prematurity

Retinopathy of prematurity treatment is offered by Ophthalmic Partners for patients in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and the surrounding communities.

WHAT IS RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY?

Retinopathy of prematurity is a condition that occurs in premature newborns. If left untreated, retinopathy of prematurity may lead to blindness.

WHAT CAUSES RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY?

Retinopathy of prematurity is caused by underdeveloped blood vessels of the eyes. After birth, the vessels do not develop properly, and the blood flow to the retinas is affected. Without proper blood flow, the retinas may become damaged, and the child’s vision is jeopardized. The condition may result in bleeding, scarring or detachment of the retina and loss of vision.

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY?

The most significant risk factors for retinopathy of prematurity are low birth weight and premature delivery.

HOW CAN RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY BE PREVENTED?

Avoiding any circumstances that may result in low birth weight or premature delivery are the only preventative measures against retinopathy of prematurity. In some cases, though, these two factors cannot be avoided, so there may not be any preventative measures for the condition.

HOW IS RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY DIAGNOSED?

Retinopathy of prematurity is diagnosed during a thorough eye exam. If your child was born with a low birth weight or prematurely, contact our office to schedule an appointment. OPP recommends that children who were born at 30 weeks or younger, or born with a birth weight of three pounds or less should be evaluated for retinopathy of prematurity. Typically, the eye exam should be conducted from four to nine weeks after birth.

HOW IS RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY TREATED?

Mild to moderate cases of retinopathy of prematurity typically resolve without treatment. More severe cases, though, typically require treatment, such as cryotherapy, photocoagulation, scleral buckling or vitrectomy.