Emergency Neonatal Care

Protecting the Vision of Your Newborn

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is a potentially blinding eye disorder that primarily affects premature infants weighing about 1500 grams or less, or those born before 31 weeks of gestation. At Maya Netralaya, we provide expert screening services to detect and treat abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina before it causes permanent damage.

The "Golden Period" for Screening

Time is of the essence in ROP. The first screening must happen within 4 weeks (30 days) of birth. For very small babies (born before 28 weeks), the screening should ideally occur even earlier, by the 3rd week.

Who Needs ROP Screening?

Babies born at or before 34 weeks of gestation.
Babies with a birth weight of 2kg (2000g) or less.
Babies with prolonged oxygen therapy or multiple health issues at birth.

How is ROP Screening Performed?

Dr. Rahul Singh performs a dilated retinal examination using specialized pediatric instruments. The process is gentle and designed to be as comfortable as possible for the infant.

Step 1: Dilation

Mild eye drops are used to enlarge the baby's pupils so the retina can be seen clearly.

Step 2: Examination

Dr. Singh uses an Indirect Ophthalmoscope to check for abnormal blood vessel growth (stages 1 to 5).

Treatment Options

If ROP is detected at a "Type 1" or "Threshold" stage, immediate treatment is required to prevent retinal detachment:

Laser Photocoagulation: The most common treatment to "seal" the peripheral retina.
Anti-VEGF Injections: Medications that help slow down abnormal vessel growth.
Surgical Intervention: For advanced cases (stages 4 and 5).

[Image showing laser treatment for retinopathy of prematurity]

Why AIIMS Expertise Matters?

ROP is one of the most delicate areas of ophthalmology. Misdiagnosis or a delay of even a few days can result in lifelong blindness. Dr. Rahul Singh’s intensive training at AIIMS ensures that your baby receives the highest standard of international neonatal eye care.

Emergency Booking

For ROP, please call us directly for an immediate slot.

Important Advice

"The eyes of a premature baby may look normal on the outside, but ROP happens deep inside the retina. Do not wait for symptoms like 'white pupils' to appear, as that indicates a very advanced stage."

— Dr. Rahul Singh

Screening Checklist

Birth weight < 2000g

Born before 34 weeks

History of NICU stay

History of Oxygen therapy

ROP Screening