SEP 25, 2013
Lens-Sparing Vitrectomy for Stage 4 ROP
By Franco M. Recchia, MD; G. Baker Hubbard III, MD
ASRS 2013 Annual Meeting
Pediatric Ophth/Strabismus, Retina/Vitreous
In this interview from the ASRS 2013 Annual Meeting, Dr. Baker Hubbard III shares details from a retrospective study that measured the long-term anatomic success and quality of life within a cohort of stage 4 ROP patients who underwent lens-sparing vitrectomy.
After a mean span of 8.5 years, only 1 of 32 eyes in the cohort experienced late recurrent retinal detachment. More than half of the patients had 20/200 vision or better, and of 12 children surveyed, all were able to participate in school, though most required special education and low-vision aids. As expected, significant systemic combordities were noted in the group, but 33% had no significant comborbities.
Dr. Hubbard discusses how these patients may have fared differently today, given that the criteria for surgical intervention in cases of stage 4 ROP have changed as laser photocoagulation is initiated more promptly. He also discusses the importance of involving multiple ophthalmologists and allied health personnel in the long-term care of patients with ROP, as well as the ocular comorbidities associated with ROP that comprehensive ophthalmologists should plan to manage.