Diode laser photocoagulation to the ridge and avascular retina in threshold retinopathy of prematurity.
OBJECTIVE
To report results applying diode laser photocoagulation to both the peripheral avascular retina and the ridge in stage 3+ threshold retinopathy of prematurity.


METHODS
The authors performed a retrospective review of 82 consecutive eyes in 43 preterm infants with threshold disease who had both the peripheral avascular retina and the ridge treated with diode laser photocoagulation. With a minimum follow-up of 3 months, these eyes were evaluated for intraoperative and postoperative complications and long-term anatomic results.


RESULTS
A favorable anatomic outcome occurred in 79 eyes (96%). There were no intraoperative complications. Postoperative intraocular hemorrhage occurred in eight eyes (10%) and resolved without sequelae. Supplemental laser was required in only two eyes (2%).


CONCLUSIONS
Diode laser photocoagulation to the ridge and peripheral avascular retina in threshold retinopathy of prematurity is associated with a favorable anatomic outcome. The risk of postoperative intraocular hemorrhage and the need for supplemental laser photocoagulation is low.
Steinmetz
Robert L
RL
Southern Vitreoretinal Associates, Tallahassee, Florida 32308, USA.
Brooks
H Logan
HL
D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007431:Intraoperative Complications; D017075:Laser Coagulation; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012160:Retina / Q000601:surgery*; D012171:Retinal Vessels / Q000601:surgery*; D012178:Retinopathy of Prematurity / Q000145:classification / Q000601:surgery*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome