---
title: Retinopathy of prematurity
description: "Retinopathy of prematurity ROP is an abnormal development of retinal blood vessels in premature infants. Severe cases can lead to retinal detachment and blindness. ## Risk factors and screening ROP is linked to low birth weight, early gestation, and oxygen…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/retinopathy-of-prematurity/"
updated: "2025-12-16"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# Retinopathy of prematurity

Retinopathy of prematurity ROP is an abnormal development of retinal blood vessels in premature infants. Severe cases can lead to retinal detachment and blindness.

## Risk factors and screening

ROP is linked to low birth weight, early gestation, and oxygen exposure.

- Highest risk in very premature or very low-birth-weight babies
- Routine retinal screening in neonatal units from a few weeks after birth
- Staging based on vessel changes, location, and presence of plus disease
- Most mild ROP regresses without treatment

## Treatment

Intervention is recommended for sight-threatening stages.

- Laser photocoagulation or intravitreal anti-VEGF injections to stop abnormal growth
- Vitrectomy or scleral buckling surgery for retinal detachment
- Long-term follow-up for refractive errors, amblyopia, and strabismus
- Close coordination between paediatric, neonatal, and ophthalmic teams