DEPARTMENT OF COUNSELLING Retinopathy of Prematurity

Definition ROP is a disease of Retina in premature children with a low birth weight and a history of prolonged oxygen therapy The disease is characterised by abnormal growth of blood vessels on the retina which may lead to blindness (Picture of the normal retina and prematurity retina fundus photos)

Causes Premature babies born before 28 – 30 weeks of gestation and birth weight of less than 1250 gms are at risk of ROP High oxygen concentration contributes to the development of ROP

Risk factors In premature babies some parts of the Retina are choroid of blood vessels, hence they suffer from lack of oxygen Certain chemicals are released that promote growth of blood vessels in an irregular manner Large amounts of O2 required for a baby’s survival is believed to be toxic to the blood vessels

Treatment: Laser Treatment: These abnormal blood vessels cause bleeding scan formation and later separation of the retina from patient’s and decrease vision The disease is divided into several stages depending on the severity Treatment: This depends on the stage / severity of the disease Laser Treatment: The aim is to destroy the immature retina and to show down or stop the growth of the abnormal vessels

Cryotheraphy Scheral Buckling The immature retina is destroyed using very low temperature Scheral Buckling A Silicon band is tied around the eye. This is done in later stages if the baby has developed a retinal detachment

Vitrectomy In this surgery the vitreous which is a gel like substance in the eye, is removed The scar tissue pulling the retina, along with any blood in the gel, is removed This helps the retina to go back and lie flat on the inner surface of the wall of eye

Role of Counsellor Should give clear information to the parent’s about the nature and progression of disease Explain how the treatment will work and prevent further damage to the eye Explain the visual prognosis if child has come at an advance stage Explain about the chances of myopia in the future Explained the need for follow-up as instructed by the doctor and give clear information of importance of follow up

Conclusion: Screening the ROP babies in all hospital. (Now our paediatric doctors and Retina doctors going to ROP screening in every week Friday in GH Madurai) Creating awareness of ROP

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