Case Stories

A Miracle Journey of a Premature Baby's Triumph over Retinopathy of Prematurity
- Dr. SUSHMA JAYANNA

HealEYE

Health Insights

Dr. SUSHMA JAYANNA

Faculty
Retina and ROP Services

A Miracle Journey of a Premature Baby's Triumph over Retinopathy of Prematurity

Case History

A 6-week-old female baby born in the 28th week of gestation, with birth weight of just 1.1 kg was referred to Shantilal Shanghvi Eye Institute, diagnosed with Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP). The challenge intensified as her left eye was in an advanced stage, classified as 4A, and was further complicated by vitreous haemorrhage.

Treatment

The journey began with crucial laser sessions in both eyes, aiming to halt ROP progression. Each session was a mix of hope and trepidation for her parents. Close monitoring revealed the urgency of surgery for the advanced stage in her left eye. Administering anaesthesia to a fragile 1.4 kg baby was challenging, but help arrived promptly. The surgery on her left eye was undertaken with meticulous precision with the assistance of experienced paediatric anaesthesia team led by Dr. Raja Narasing Rao, from the LVPEI (L V Prasad Eye Institute), Hyderabad. Post operation the baby was shifted to NICU.

Result

Post-surgery, signs of progress and resilience emerged within a week. Retinopathy of prematurity started regressing and there was significant increase in weight, offering renewed hope for a brighter future. With bi-weekly follow-up, this tiny warrior has a fighting chance to grow up with the precious gift of sight, ready to explore the beauty of the world that awaits her.