Eyecare Hospital has introduced the Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) laser therapy to safeguard the vision of premature infants.
ROP poses a significant threat to the eyesight of preterm babies, stemming from underdeveloped retinal blood vessels due to premature birth, typically affecting those born before 32 weeks and weighing over 1,500 grams. ROP can lead to irreversible retinal damage, resulting in permanent vision loss if left untreated. A such, timely intervention is crucial, as once vision is lost, it cannot be restored through subsequent treatment.
The inaugural treatment procedure took place on November 23 last year, on a 33-week-old infant with irregular retinal nerve development. Following the treatment, there was a notable reduction in the baby's abnormal eye nerves, marking a successful intervention. The laser therapy precisely targets affected areas of the retina, diminishing abnormal blood vessels and thwarting the progression of the condition.
Vitreo-Retinal Specialist and Surgeon at Eyecare Hospital Dr. Mohamed Azzam Ali, spearheaded the procedure, underscoring its significance as a vital healthcare service in the Maldives. He lauded the treatment's efficacy, highlighting its advancement in the nation's healthcare landscape.
Eyecare Hospital has so far performed 10 successful ROP laser therapies on infants aged one to two months, evaluating a total of 14 children's eyes for treatment eligibility.