Laser surgery for retinopathy of prematurity

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a common eye disorder occurring in preterm infants. Formally known as retrolental fibroplasia, ROP is defined as a vasoproliferative disorder that occurs in the developing retina of premature infants' eyes. Until recently, cryotherapy was the recommended treatment for infants diagnosed with advancing ROP. Now laser surgery is being used as an alternative treatment. This article reviews the pathophysiology, etiology, and classification of ROP, considers the pros and cons of laser surgery versus cryotherapy, and outlines the experience with laser surgery in our NICU.