Surgery for stage 5 retinopathy of prematurity.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Our understanding of the pathogenesis and surgical management of stage 5 retinopathy of prematurity has come a long way. Despite of new technologies in retinal surgical devices, the dissection of thick membranes is still a challenge. We use a capsulotomy 'plug on tip' 0.05 mm designed for capsular fimosis. This diathermy instrument is used to cut the lens capsule by low power waves transmitted from the tip of an active incising electrode and make incisions in the tissue. We tested this technique with 226 infants of which all 226 eyes retrolental membrane were removed. In 6-46 months follow-up, light perception or better visual function was achieved in 92%.

RECENT FINDINGS: Despite of new technologies in retinal surgical devices, the dissection of thick membranes is still a challenge. Sometimes, we need to use tools that were made for another purpose and adapt it to our current techniques.

SUMMARY: Achieving at least a vision of light perception in eyes that were considered untreatable is a good outcome as light perception maintains the circadian circle and helps in the brain development.

VIDEO ABSTRACT: http://links.lww.com/COOP/A47.