Laser Treatment for Retinopathy of Prematurity

Threshold retinopathy of prematurity is a level of disease at which 50% of affected infants are predicted to go blind without treatment. The Cryotherapy for Retinopathy of Prematurity Study has shown that this number can be halved with treatment. Cryotherapy, however, is stressful on the infant, leaves large scars, and is more difficult for the surgeon to administer. Laser photocoagulation with the indirect ophthalmoscope has been shown in pilot studies to be as effective as cryotherapy, less stressful on the infant, and easier for the surgeon to administer. This form of therapy may become the preferred method for treating threshold retinopathy of prematurity.