Comprehensive guide by Dr. Jignesh Gala — ROP specialist in Mumbai. ROP lasers | ROP surgery | Neonatal retina care.
What is Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)?
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a disorder of the developing retinal blood vessels in premature and low-birth-weight infants. Because the retina completes vascularization late in pregnancy, early birth can interrupt normal growth. As a result, abnormal vessel proliferation, scarring, and in severe cases, retinal detachment may occur, leading to vision loss.
👉 Learn more from EyeWiki – Retinopathy of Prematurity (eyewiki.org) and the NCBI Bookshelf Clinical Overview (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov in Bing).
Who is at Risk for Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)?
Premature infants and those with low birth weight are most vulnerable. In fact, neonatologists and pediatricians routinely screen at-risk babies in NICUs to detect problems early. With timely intervention, many complications can be prevented.
👉 Reference: AAO – ROP Asia-Pacific Guidelines (aao.org)
Signs & Symptoms Parents Should Watch For Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)
Early ROP is usually detected during scheduled eye screenings and may not show visible signs. However, in advanced cases, parents may notice:
- Abnormal eye movements or a white reflex (leukocoria)
- Crossed eyes or misalignment
- Sudden changes after NICU discharge (prompt re-evaluation is recommended)
👉 Note for parents: If your child was premature, always follow the NICU or pediatrician’s schedule for eye checks. Early detection truly saves sight.
Screening & Diagnosis of Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)
At-risk infants should be examined by a pediatric retina specialist or ophthalmologist experienced in ROP. Screening schedules vary depending on gestational age and neonatal health. Therefore, NICU teams and ophthalmologists coordinate follow-up care after discharge to ensure continuity.
👉 Read: Ophthalmology Journal – ROP Screening Outcomes (2021) (aaojournal.org)
Treatment Options for Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)
Treatment depends on the stage and severity of ROP. Importantly, several options are available:
- Laser photocoagulation (ROP laser): The most common treatment for threshold ROP. Laser therapy targets the avascular retina to reduce abnormal vessel growth.
- Anti-VEGF injections: Used in selected cases to slow abnormal vascular proliferation.
- ROP surgery (vitrectomy/scleral buckling): For advanced ROP with retinal detachment, surgery can reattach the retina and preserve vision when possible.
Evidence from the Ophthalmology Journal – ROP Treatment Advances (2014) (aaojournal.org) shows that laser therapy remains the gold standard, while anti-VEGF is increasingly used in severe posterior ROP.
Why Choose a Specialist with Neonatal Retina Experience for Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)?
ROP care requires:
- Expertise in neonatal retina anatomy and specialized surgical/laser techniques for tiny eyes.
- Collaboration with neonatology teams and pediatricians to manage systemic health during treatment.
- Experience, since outcomes improve with specialist skill and high treatment volumes.
About Dr. Jignesh Gala
- ROP specialist in Mumbai, trusted by pediatricians and neonatologists.
- Trained at L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad — one of India’s largest ROP centers.
- Has treated more than 4,000 babies and performed over 300 retina lasers.
- Skilled in both laser photocoagulation and ROP surgery.
Coordination with Pediatricians & Neonatologists
Successful ROP care is always a team effort. Neonatologists detect at-risk infants, pediatricians coordinate follow-ups, and the ROP specialist performs timely screening and treatment. Because of Dr. Gala’s close relationships with Mumbai’s pediatric and neonatal community, babies receive rapid, integrated care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When should a premature baby have their first eye check?
A: At-risk infants must be examined as recommended by their NICU team and ophthalmologist. Early and regular follow-up is essential.
Q: Is ROP curable?
A: Many cases of ROP are treatable, and vision can be preserved if detected early. Severe cases may need surgery and long-term follow-up.
Q: Are ROP lasers safe for newborns?
A: Yes. Laser photocoagulation is a standard, well-established treatment when performed by an experienced ROP specialist.
Call to Now — Book an Appointment
If your baby is at risk or you need a second opinion for ROP, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jignesh Gala — experienced ROP specialist in Mumbai.
📍 Clinic Address:
B125, Laram Centre, Ground Floor
Behind Sunil Jewellers, S.V. Road
Andheri West Station, Mumbai
📞 Call: 7718885245
👩💼 Appointment Coordinator: Mrs. Vrushali Chande
🌐 Visit: Crystal Clear Eye Hospital | Dr. Jignesh Gala’s Official Site
📺 Watch patient stories: YouTube Channel – Dr. Jignesh Gala
