Diode laser photocoagulation treatment in retinopathy of prematurity

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the parameters and outcomes of diode laser ablation therapy in retinopathy of prematurity. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included infants who were treated with photocoagulation due to retinopathy of prematurity in Adana Numune Training and Research Hospital. Demographic characteristics of the patients, clinical findings, treatment parameters and outcomes were analyzed. Results: Diode laser photocoagulation was performed in 283 eyes of 142 babies with retinopathy of prematurity. 70 patients (49.3%) were female and 72 patients (50.7%) were male. The mean birth weight was 1316 +/- 457 grams and the mean postmenstrual week was 29.4 +/- 2.7. The mean postmenstrual week of treatment was 38 +/- 3.2. The mean level of laser energy was found to be 167.8 +/- 21.6 mW (100-280 mW) and the mean number of laser spots was 1728.1 +/- 789.4 (100-5600). Due to the progression of the retinopathy, 24 eyes (8.5%) were received additional laser treatment. Vitreoretinal surgery was performed in a tertiary center after laser treatment in 8 advanced stage eyes (2.8%) who were referred to us from another hospital. In 275 patients (97.2%), diode laser treatment was performed effectively and anatomical success was achieved. Conclusion: Diode laser photocoagulation provides a high anatomical success in the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity. Close and careful follow up and early referral, where necessary is crucial for these patients.