1. RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY

2. What is Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)? b Disease of the retina in premature infants b Usually occurs in 1.5 kg or less b Retina blood vessels are abnormal b Scar tissue grows over the retina b Detected by an ophthalmologist or surgeon b ROP includes retinal detachment, glaucoma and misaligned eyes

3. Normal Function of the Eyes b Light enters the eye through the pupil and strikes the retina b Light sensitive cells (cones & rods) convert the light to nervous impulses b The optic nerve sends these impulses to the brain b The brain interprets them as images

4. How Does ROP Affect Vision? b If ROP is diagnosed - abnormal blood vessels in the retina. b These abnormal blood vessels may shrink or go away without affecting the vision b The infant may have moderate or severe loss of vision may occur. b May have detachment of the retina

5. b Nearsightedness b Lazy eye (amblyopia) b Blindness

6. CAUSES OF ROP b Exact cause not understood b Prematurity with small retinal blood vessels that develop abnormally b Baby’s weight plays an important role b The lower the birth weight, the greater the risk for developing ROP

7. PREVENTION b ROP is more common today with the improvement of survival chances b There is no cure for ROP as of today b Studies have shown the over oxygenation of the infant affects the eyes b O2 SAT monitors are used to guide oxygenation

8. TREATMENT b Most babies do not need treatment b Frequent eye exams are needed b Laser Surgery (detachment) b Cryotherapy (freezing) treat the sides of the retina b Successful treatment can slow down or reverse the disease