Research Articles
Screening and management of retinopathy of prematurity in Colombo during the pandemic
Author:
Hiranya Abeysekera
Consultant Paediatric Ophthalmologist, Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children, Colombo, LK
Abstract
Introduction: COVID-19 related travel restrictions and lockdown status of the country has affected the routine work of most of the health sector. Screening and treatment of retinopathy of prematurity is considered as a procedure which must be continued despite the adverse situation.
Methods: ROP register of the Department of Paediatric Ophthalmology was analyzed to see how the pandemic situation affected the ROP screening and treatment.
Results: Out of the total number of 363 babies who were screened for ROP 48 developed severe forms of ROP needing treatment. 45 babies could not attend the clinic visits on the given date.
Discussion and conclusion: Severe forms of ROP can be treated with one dose of intravitreal injection of bevacizumab. 532nm Green Laser is reserved for zone 3 stage 3 ROP and for babies who develop tractional elements. Robust and prolonged follow up mechanism is necessary to maintain the integrity of the ROP management.
How to Cite:
Abeysekera H. Screening and management of retinopathy of prematurity in Colombo during the pandemic. Journal of the College of Ophthalmologists of Sri Lanka. 2020;26(2):51–5. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/jcosl.v26i2.34
Published on
01 Dec 2020.
Peer Reviewed
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