Abstract
Purpose: :
This study aims to evaluate the results of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening at The University Hospital of Cologne. Regarding several patients with stage 4 and/or 5 we are trying to elucidate whether follow-up was close enough.
Methods: :
285 patients with a gestational age (GA) < 32 weeks or birth weight < 1501 g, or GA between 32 - 36 weeks and more than three days of oxygen treatment respectively, required examination between 04/2001 - 08/2007. Coagulation treatment was performed according to german guidelines when threshold disease became obvious. Retinal detachments were treated with cerclage and/or vitrectomy (ppV). Data was analyzed for incidence and stage of ROP-disease, necessity of treatment and treatment modality.
Results: :
242 (84,9%) of the infants did develop any stage of ROP. Sub-threshold stages were apparent in 190 (66,7%) of the patients. Laser treatment became necessary in 52 (18,2%) of screened infants. 4 (1,4%) required re-coagulation. 3 patients (1,1%) developed stage 4 or 5 disease after laser treatment. Visual prognosis in those eyes requiring ppV was poor.
Conclusions: :
Compared to other studies we saw a rather high incidence of ROP as well as necessity of treatment. Variance of progression speed sometimes leaves choice of intensity of follow-up critical, as invasive treatment remains challenging.
Keywords: retinopathy of prematurity