Learn about Retinopathy Of Prematurity Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Retinopathy Of Prematurity and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Retinopathy Of Prematurity

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) treatment is a critical, sight-saving procedure performed by a pediatric ophthalmologist to prevent blindness in premature infants. ROP is a condition where abnormal blood vessels grow in the retina, which can lead to retinal detachment and severe vision loss. The primary treatments include laser photocoagulation or intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF medication, which aim to halt the progression of abnormal vessel growth. Cryotherapy is a less common alternative. This delicate procedure is performed under microscopic guidance in a neonatal intensive care setting, often while the infant is under sedation. Timely intervention is crucial and is determined by a detailed eye exam that stages the severity of the disease. Successful treatment can preserve central vision and prevent lifelong disability.

Key Highlights

    Prevents progression to retinal detachment and blindness in premature infants.Multiple treatment modalities available (laser, injections) tailored to the infant's condition.Performed with precision using advanced microscopic technology.Minimally invasive procedures help preserve as much healthy retinal tissue as possible.Critical for long-term visual development and quality of life.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Diagnosis of Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) reaching 'Threshold' or 'Type 1' disease, as defined by international classification.
  • Progressive abnormal blood vessel growth (neovascularization) in the retina.
  • Plus disease (dilation and tortuosity of retinal blood vessels).
  • Infants born at a gestational age of less than 31 weeks or with a birth weight less than 1500 grams are at highest risk and require screening.
  • Zone I ROP with any stage, or Zone II ROP with stage 2 or 3 with plus disease.

How to prepare

  • Detailed retinal examination by an ophthalmologist to stage and zone the ROP.
  • Pupil dilation using infant-safe eye drops to allow a full view of the retina.
  • Coordination with the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) team for monitoring and support.
  • Administration of topical anesthetic drops and possibly sedation or general anesthesia as deemed safe by the pediatric anesthesiologist.
  • Informed consent discussion with the parents or guardians explaining the risks, benefits, and alternatives.

Risks & possible complications

  • Short-term risks include conjunctival hemorrhage, corneal abrasion, or eyelid swelling.
  • Potential for under-treatment or over-treatment, requiring additional procedures.
  • Rare risks include infection (endophthalmitis), cataract formation, or intraocular hemorrhage.
  • With anti-VEGF injections, there is a small risk of systemic side effects and a higher chance of disease recurrence requiring retreatment.
  • Long-term risks can include high myopia (nearsightedness), strabismus (eye misalignment), or glaucoma.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Immediate post-procedure monitoring in the NICU for vital signs and comfort.
  • Use of prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infection and reduce swelling.
  • Close follow-up eye exams are mandatory, typically within 1-2 weeks, to assess treatment response.
  • Parents will be advised on signs of potential complications, such as increased redness, swelling, or sensitivity to light.
  • Long-term ophthalmological follow-up is essential throughout childhood to monitor visual development and manage any refractive errors or amblyopia (lazy eye).
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0 days (typically performed during existing NICU admission)
  • checked Expected recovery time: Initial healing: 1-2 weeks; Long-term visual monitoring: ongoing through childhood

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering retinopathy of prematurity in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for retinopathy of prematurity compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 435 – USD 1,632 0 days (typically performed during existing NICU admission) ~ Initial healing: 1-2 weeks; Long-term visual monitoring: ongoing through childhood Know More
Turkey USD 3,221 – USD 12,079 0 days (typically performed during existing NICU admission) ~ Initial healing: 1-2 weeks; Long-term visual monitoring: ongoing through childhood Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

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Ophthalmologists for Retinopathy Of Prematurity

Explore experienced ophthalmologists who regularly perform retinopathy of prematurity and provide pre- and post-operative care in Turkey.

Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated