Cryotherapy for retinopathy of prematurity

With the rapid progress in neonatology saving more lives of very immature infants, the occurrence of retinopathy of prematurity or retrolental fibroplasia has increased although most cases spontaneously resolve, severe visual damage and blindness still occur. The progressive case of retinopathy is a dilemma for ophthalmologists consulting in the intensive care nursery. The Japanese have been pursuing modalities of treatment of the acute case, but there are few reported cases in the United States and Canada. Four cases of retinopathy of prematurity treated by cryotherapy are presented with follow-up. This is done in an effort to stimulate further reporting and consideration of treatment of such cases.