Retinopathy of Prematurity Treatment Options Evaluated

Pediatric ophthalmologists prefer laser photoablation to treat retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), according to results of a recent survey. Meanwhile, intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) is used, but not as commonly.

An anonymous 18-question survey was administered to an international contingent of 101 pediatric ophthalmologists in early 2017. Investigators sought to determine preferred first line treatment for ROP, preferred IVB use, and post-IVB outcomes and potential complications. Among the results:

• Seven in every 10 respondents reported being directly involved in ROP treatment.
• >Two-thirds said they prefer laser treatment over IVB for type 1 ROP; ~one-third expressed a preference for IVB.
• 92% reported success with laser treatment between 75% and 100%.
• 35% said IVB was 75% to 100% successful.
• 47% preferred administering half dose of adult-prescribed IVB.
• No cases of endophthalmitis were reported with intravitreal injection.

Fouzdar J, Song H, Al Holou S, Morgan L, Suh D. Retinopathy of prematurity: preferred practice patterns among pediatric ophthalmologists. Clin Ophthalmol. 2018;12:1003-1009. doi: 10.2147/OPTH.S161504.