CRADLE ROP

CRADLE ROP (Chaithanya Retcam aided Digital-Screening, Laser treatment and Empowerment of ROP care)

What is ROP?

ROP (Retinopathy of Prematurity) is an eye condition that affects premature babies, especially those with low birth weight or those who received oxygen support. If not detected and treated on time, ROP can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness.

What is CRADLE ROP?

CRADLE ROP (Chaithanya Retcam Aided Digital Screening, Laser Treatment and Empowerment of ROP Care) is a comprehensive ROP screening and treatment initiative by Chaithanya Eye Hospital & Research Institute, supported by the Chaithanya Sight Foundation.

This program uses advanced retinal photography (RETCAM imaging) and information technology to deliver ROP screening services even to remote NICUs where such facilities were previously unavailable.

Which Babies Need ROP Screening?

• Premature babies with birth weight ≤ 2000 grams
• Babies born at or before 34 weeks of gestation
• Babies weighing more than 2000 grams if other ROP risk factors are present
• Any baby recommended for screening by the neonatologist

Other Risk Factors for ROP

• Oxygen therapy
• Ventilator support
• Low oxygen levels (hypoxemia)
• Blood transfusions
• Anemia
• Infections after birth
• Delayed weight gain
• Low blood pressure

When Should ROP Screening Be Done?

• Before 30 days of life for all at-risk babies
• Between the 2nd and 3rd week of life for babies:
  • Weighing less than 1200 grams
  • Born before 28 weeks

How Is ROP Screening Done?

• Performed in the NICU under neonatologist supervision
• Best done in a calm “step-down” NICU environment
• Baby is fed about 1 hour before examination
• Pupils are gently dilated
• Examination using indirect ophthalmoscopy or RETCAM imaging
• Baby is closely monitored for breathing and heart rate

For comfort, sucrose or dextrose drops may be used. Emergency resuscitation equipment is always kept ready.

Treatment Facilities We Offer

Laser photocoagulation is the primary treatment for ROP. We follow international ETROP guidelines using a 532 nm green laser delivered through indirect ophthalmoscopy for eligible stages of the disease.

Why Long-Term Follow-Up Is Important

Babies treated for ROP may develop other vision problems later in childhood, such as:

• Squint (Strabismus)
• Lazy eye (Amblyopia)
• High power glasses (Myopia)
• Childhood cataract
• Retinal detachment

Regular follow-up at any branch of Chaithanya Eye Hospital ensures early detection and proper management of these conditions.