Abstract:
To report a previously undescribed complication of laser therapy for retinopathy of prematurity – epiretinal membrane formation and associated local macular detachment.
We present a case of epiretinal membrane formation with an associated local macular detachment following laser ablation for retinopathy of prematurity. The surgical technique used to successfully remove this membrane is also described.
A male infant was born at 27 weeks gestational age. At 33 weeks gestational age he developed retinopathy of prematurity requiring treatment in both eyes . Laser ablation of both eyes was performed through hazy media at this time. The child showed regression of retinopathy in both eyes. However, several weeks following the procedure, an epiretinal membrane with associated local macular detachment was found in the right eye. The epiretinal membrane was subsequently successfully removed, and the local macular detachment resolved.
Photocoagulation for retinopathy of prematurity has been very successful and has reduced the incidence of blindness in premature infants. Nontheless, complications, both systemic and local, cannot be completely avoided. Parents must be informed of these possible complications, even as the procedure is strongly recommended.
Epiretinal membrane formation leading to macular elevation is a possible complication of laser treatment of threshold retinopathy of prematurity. Surgical intervention to remove the epiretinal membrane in such cases can be successful.
Keywords: retinopathy of prematurity • vitreoretinal surgery • infant vision