Anatomical and the refractive outcomes in the eyes undergoing laser photocoagulation for retinopathy of prematurity

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the anatomical and the refractive outcomes in cases that underwent laser photocoagulation (LP) for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).Materials and Method: Medical records of 38 cases that underwent LP for ROP in Uludag University Department of Ophthalmology, between 2004 and 2008, were reviewed. LP was performed in 73 eyes. Stages of ROP before and after LP were recorded. Additionally gestational age and birth weight, complications, sciascopic refractions were assessed and visual acuities were evaluated with "Teller Acuity Cards".Results: Gestational age ranged from 26 to 34 weeks, (mean 29+/-2 weeks), birth weight ranged from 850 g to 1950 g (mean 1262+/-304 g). Among all cases in the study 89%, responded with a remarkable regression of ROP with LP treatment. However, 8 eyes progressed to stage 4 and 5 despite treatment. Three eyes developed vitreous hemorrhage and 2 eyes developed preretinal hemorrhage. In the 6th month of the corrected age, spherical equivalent ranged between -8D to + 2.5D, however it ranged between -11D to + 2D in the 12th month. Hyperopia was present in 53% of all eyes and myopia was present in 25.5%. Mean visual acuity was 3.5 cpd (1.3-6.4) in the 6th month of the corrected age whereas it was 6.2 cpd (1.3-9.6) in the 12th month.Conclusion: Adequate and appropriate treatment with LP, has led to fair visual outcomes and an evident regression of ROP in all cases of the study group. Besides, hypermetropia was detected more commonly.