Patients treated with laser for retinopathy of prematurity maintained good long-term vision.
Long-term follow-up on patients treated with laser for retinopathy of prematurity.
Dolev Dollberg … Rita Ehrlich
Canadian journal of ophthalmology. Journal canadien d'ophtalmologie · 2026
Purpose
To assess long-term functional and structural outcomes in eyes treated with laser photocoagulation for retinopathy of prematurity (retinopathy of prematurity).
Methods
Treated for retinopathy of prematurity (1997-2004) underwent best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) assessment, autorefraction, biometry, OCT, and OCT angiography of the macula and optic disc.
n = 33 patients
Results
0.133
logMAR
this number means patients had good vision, measured with their best corrective lenses
n = 33 patients
More results
Poor anatomical outcome occurred in 6.3% (n = 4), with 2 eyes requiring surgery.
Mean spherical equivalent was -5.04 (±5.13) D.
Corneal curvature and lens thickness were significantly higher in the study group (p < .001).
More results
Central macular thickness was greater in retinopathy of prematurity eyes (311.97 μm vs 252.57 μm; p < .001).
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Conclusion · 1 of 2
Two decades after laser treatment, our patients demonstrated excellent visual acuity and favourable anatomic outcomes. Myopia was linked to increased corneal curvature and lens thickness.
Conclusion · 2 of 2
Significant alterations in the vascular plexuses of the macula and optic disc occur and may impact visual function in adulthood.
