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[Changes in neonatal care : Implications for ophthalmological care]
Eva Mildenberger1, Dirk Wackernagel2, Alexander K Schuster3
1Sektion Neonatologie, Klinik und Poliklinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Universitätsmedizin, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Deutschland. eva.mildenberger@unimedizin-mainz.de.
Die Ophthalmologie
|May 26, 2023
Summary
The incidence of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) has not increased in Germany, but preterm infants require specialized ophthalmological and neurological care. Approximately 70,000 check-ups are estimated annually for these children.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatology
- Developmental Pediatrics
Context:
- Increasing survival rates of extremely preterm infants (<28 weeks) in Germany present unique challenges.
- Preterm infants face risks of vision impairment and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
- High-income countries observe a growing population of preterm survivors into adulthood.
Purpose:
- To assess the impact of increased preterm infant survival on ophthalmological care provision in Germany.
- To analyze trends in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and other visual impairments in preterm infants.
- To estimate the demand for specialized outpatient care for preterm infants.
Summary:
- Approximately 60,000 preterm infants are born annually in Germany, with ~3600 extremely preterm (<28 weeks) infants receiving intensive care.
- Survival rates for extremely preterm infants approach 80%, with no observed increase in severe retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) incidence.
- Visual impairment rates in preterm infants vary (3-25%), necessitating specialized ophthalmological and neurological expertise.
Impact:
- Ophthalmological care must adapt to the specific visual system needs of preterm individuals.
- An estimated 70,000 annual outpatient check-ups are required for preterm infants and toddlers needing combined ophthalmological and developmental neurological expertise.
- Proactive management and specialized care are crucial for optimizing long-term visual health outcomes in preterm populations.
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