Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) In Newborns

Premature birth leads to various challenges. Poor eye health is one of those important concerns that requires attention. Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is an eye condition that can affect babies born before their eyes have fully developed.

What is Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)?

Retinopathy of Prematurity, or ROP, is an eye condition we see in babies who arrive too early. It is caused by abnormal, fragile blood vessels growing in the retina, the sensitive, light-sensing tissue at the very back of the eye, which is essential for vision.

Usually, these blood vessels finish developing naturally while the baby is safe inside the womb. It is generally seen in babies born prematurely, typically before 31 weeks, or with a birth weight of less than 1,500 grams (about 3.3 pounds). This crucial development process is interrupted. After birth, these vessels can grow erratically, leading to severe vision problems, including blindness, if we don’t catch it early.

Why Catching It Early is Everything

The reassuring news is that most babies with ROP do not require any intervention. About 9 out of 10 infants with mild ROP naturally improve as they grow. However, in some cases, the abnormal vessels get worse, starting to pull on the retina. 

This can cause the retina to detach, which sadly leads to severe and permanent vision loss.  That is why regular, early screening is so critical. Our ophthalmologists partner closely with neonatologists to ensure premature babies receive their first ROP check-up within 4 to 6 weeks after birth. This timing is vital for an accurate diagnosis and immediate action.

If ROP is found, you need to keep a very close eye on your baby’s progress, sometimes checking their eyes every one to three weeks until those blood vessels have matured safely.

Who Needs Extra Attention for ROP?

While ROP mainly affects preemies, certain factors can increase the risk of a baby developing it. These include:

Being born before 31 weeks of pregnancy.Having a very low birth weight (under 1,500 grams).Dealing with breathing difficulties or requiring oxygen therapy.Having brain infections or bleeding.General health instability after delivery.

Suppose your baby falls into any of these risk categories. In that case, their neonatologist will almost certainly recommend a retina screening—it’s a simple, painless eye exam that could make all the difference to their future sight.

How We Diagnose ROP

A paediatric ophthalmologists perform specialised retinal examinations. They use gentle eye drops to widen your baby’s pupils. Then, with advanced imaging equipment, they can get a super-detailed look at the retina, spotting even the slightest changes.

They use a staging system to classify ROP based on how serious it is:

Stage 1–2: Mild changes; these usually clear up on their own.Stage 3: Moderate abnormal vessel growth; this may need treatment to stop it from getting worse.Stage 4: The retina is partially detached—this demands urgent intervention.Stage 5: Complete retinal detachment—even with treatment, the risk of blindness is very high.

In severe cases, the condition is called “aggressive ROP” or “plus disease,” in which the blood vessels appear thick and twisted, and the disease progresses rapidly.

Treatment Options

If your baby’s eye doctor sees that the ROP is progressing, quick treatment is the best way to save their vision. Here are the safest, most cutting-edge options:

Laser Therapy (Photocoagulation):An exact laser gently seals off the specific parts of the retina where the abnormal vessels are growing. This is a proven, highly successful treatment when performed early.Anti-VEGF Injections:For specific situations, especially in our tiniest, most premature infants, experts inject a special medication into the eye to halt the growth of the problematic vessels.Surgical Procedures:In advanced stages (like Stages 4 or 5), skilled retina surgeons may perform a vitrectomy or other procedures to reattach the retina and restore as much vision as possible.

Experts should always take the time to explain every single step, ensuring parents feel knowledgeable and fully supported throughout their baby’s treatment journey.

The Outlook Of ROP Treatment At Save Sight Centre

The wonderful news is that ROP often resolves completely, leaving absolutely no lasting damage to a child’s sight. Nevertheless, any baby who has had ROP must ensure periodic eye check-ups throughout childhood. This helps the medical experts find and fix other potential issues early on, such as:

Squint (misaligned or crossed eyes)Amblyopia (commonly called “lazy eye”)Glaucoma or severe nearsightedness

Dedicated Squint Specialists and Paediatric Ophthalmologists track your child’s visual development, making sure their eyes grow up healthy and coordinated.

Can We Prevent ROP?

While we can’t always prevent ROP itself, we can absolutely prevent its complications through early screening and expert care. Mothers-to-be can also help lower the risks by:

Attending all prenatal check-ups as scheduled.Following all medical advice to reduce the chance of an early delivery.Ensuring meticulous oxygen management if their baby needs neonatal care.

Even if a premature birth is unavoidable, current medical technology and careful follow-up ensure your child still has the chance to enjoy a lifetime of healthy vision.

A Child’s Life After ROP

If your baby has had ROP treatment, continued, consistent monitoring is essential. Follow-up visits confirm the retina is developing normally and check for any late-developing complications. As parents, you should watch for signs such as an eye that seems misaligned, difficulty focusing, or frequent eye rubbing.

Remember this: Early care today means lifelong clarity tomorrow.