Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is an eye condition that affects premature or low-birth-weight babies. In these babies, the retina (the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye) is not fully developed at birth.
Abnormal blood vessels may grow in the retina, which can lead to bleeding, retinal detachment, and permanent vision loss if not detected early.
At Sushila Hospital, specialized screening and treatment are available to protect the vision of premature infants.
ROP usually does not show any visible symptoms in babies, and the eyes may appear completely normal from the outside. Because babies cannot express vision problems, the condition can progress silently.
Early screening by an eye specialist is extremely important because timely treatment can prevent blindness in most cases.
ROP screening is recommended for:
As per medical guidelines, the first retinal examination should be done within the first 30 days of life.
ROP is detected through a detailed retinal examination performed by a trained ophthalmologist.
The doctor uses special eye drops to dilate the baby’s pupils and examines the retina using advanced instruments. In some cases, retinal imaging cameras may also be used to document the condition.
If ROP is detected early, effective treatment can prevent further damage to the retina.
Treatment options may include:
Laser therapy helps stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels and prevents further progression of the disease.
Special medications may be injected into the eye to control abnormal blood vessel growth.
In advanced stages, surgery may be required to repair retinal detachment and preserve vision.
ROP can progress quickly, sometimes within 7–14 days, so regular follow-up examinations are extremely important until the retina develops completely.
Parents should never miss follow-up appointments, as early detection of changes can protect the child’s vision.
At Sushila Hospital, our experienced eye specialists provide dedicated ROP screening and treatment to safeguard the eyesight of premature babies and ensure healthy visual development.