Drive to detect, cure eye disease in premature babies

VADODARA: Did you know that one in 10 premature babies is at the risk of getting eye disease which can result in loss of vision? But, a timely intervention by paediatric ophthalmologist or vitreo-retinal surgeon can help in saving the vision of these babies. To generate awareness among parents, paediatricians and gynaecologists about this disease medically termed as Retinopathy of Prematurity(ROP), a city-based eyecare hospital has launched a screening cum awareness drive.
ROP is abnormal vascularisation of vitreo-retinal system which if untreated could lead to severe visual loss in most cases and may not be repaired. ROP can be mild and may resolve spontaneously, but may lead to blindness in serious cases. As such, all preterm babies are at risk for ROP, and very low birth weight is an additional risk factor.
"Literature on ROP is available for a century now, but there is very low level of awareness about it among doctors and common public. To educate and inform doctors, especially paediatricians and gynaecologists, our hospital had organised a programme attended by 180 delegates from Gujarat and neighbouring states in August last year," said Dr Bharat Ramchandani, vitreo-retinal surgeon from Dr Thakorbhai V Patel Eye Institute (DTVPEH).
Prior to the programme hosted as part of continued medical education series, the hospital started screening of patients in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in the city. "The aim of starting ROP screening was to ensure that vision of the premature babies is not affected due to premature birth. ROP is thought to be caused by disorganised growth of retinal blood vessels which may result in scarring and retinal detachment," added Ramchandani.
A team of three doctors from DTVPEH comprising Ramchandani, Dr Jitendra Jethani, head of paediatric ophthalmology, and Dr Jay Prakash screen around 15 patients per week and they are affiliated to four NICUs in the city. "The programme has helped other ophthalmologists to screen such cases and refer patients to specialised doctors. We visit various neonatal units as cases of premature babies are reported to us. The sooner we examine the patient, higher the chances of arresting the damage to the eyes," Ramchandani said.
Minor cases are dealt with photocoagulation treatment, but in more serious cases an intra-ocular injection is used. "In advanced stage, retinal detachment repair surgery is done. If the diagnosis is done in extreme stages, chances of complete visual recovery are less. Even those who are treated are prone to squinting or will have to wear glasses with higher number. But, the important thing is that their vision is restored through timely medical intervention," Ramchandani added.
ROP is not a one-time diagnosis disease, but a long-term follow up and annual vitreo-retinal check-up is recommended.