Quantitative Analysis of Retinal Vessel Parameters following ROP Treatment

Abstract

 

Purpose:

 

In eyes at risk for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), posterior pole retinal vessel width and tortuosity are key markers of disease severity. Quantitative analysis of these vessels can elucidate the need for and response to laser treatment. Johnson et al (AJO, 2007) demonstrated an 18% decrease of vessel diameter after treatment. This study examines change in both posterior pole vessel width and tortuosity after treatment for Type 1 ROP.

 

Methods:

 

This study includes 18 babies with Type 1 ROP treated from 1/1/08-4/1/10 in UPenn NICUs in an ongoing imaging study of ROP. Posterior pole right eye images were obtained with a non-contact 30° fundus camera (Nidek NM-200D) <3 days before, 1 wk and 2 wks after treatment. Vessel width and tortuosity of masked images were analyzed with Computer-Aided Image Analysis of the Retina (CAIAR) and quantified in arbitrary units (AU).

 

Results:

 

In treated Type 1 ROP eyes, the width of the 3 widest vessels decreased by an average of 23% at wk 1 (p<0.02) and by 18% at wk 2 (p<0.03). The tortuosity of 3 most tortuous vessels decreased 2.3% at wk 1 and 29% at wk 2 (p<0.053).

 

Conclusions:

 

In Type 1 ROP eyes that undergo laser treatment, a quantifiable decrease in vessel width and tortuosity can be documented, though the time course of these changes may vary. These findings support the clinical impression of a decrease in vessel dilation and tortuosity as an indication of treatment response. .  

 

Keywords: retinopathy of prematurity • imaging/image analysis: clinical