Current Incidence of Retinopathy of Prematurity, 1989–1997

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Abstract
Objective. To report the current incidence and the need for surgery for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in neonates (22–36 weeks' gestational age [GA], July 1, 1989 through June 30, 1997). Study Design. Retrospective analyses using computerized perinatal database kept on all admissions, a review of patient charts, and eye examination log books. Setting. Level 3 regional referral NICU. Patients. A total of 2528 infants 32 weeks' GA. No infant born at >28 weeks needed retinal surgery. Using birth weight (BW) criteria, stage 3 ROP was not noted in infants with BWs >1500 g; retinal surgery was not needed in infants with BWs >1000 g. A number of perinatal factors were associated with ROP on univariate analysis. However, using multiple logistic regression analyses of these factors, only GA and days on supplemental oxygen therapy were associated significantly with the development of ROP. Despite increased survival of extremely low BW infants, we found a considerable reduction in incidence and severity of ROP compared with reports from an earlier chronological period. However, infants Conclusion. We conclude that the incidence and severity of ROP have decreased significantly in the present era of surfactant therapy.
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