Abstract:

Objective To retrospectively explore the incidence and causes of apnea after operation for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Methods The clinical data of 17 premature infants with operation for ROP (ROP group) and the other 23 premature infants without ROP (control group) were collected. The occurrence of apnea (time of onset and remission and original diseases) was recorded after operation in ROP group and at adjusted 37 weeks of gestational age in control group. Follow-up was conducted for 4 weeks, and the prevalences of apnea were compared between these two groups. Results There was significant difference in prevalences of apnea between ROP group and control group (52.9% vs 21.7%, P<0.05). In ROP group, time of occurrence of apnea was (38±40) h after operation, and time of remission was (126±145) h after onset. Among the infants with apnea, there were 3 cases of pneumonia (33.3%), 1 case of hypoglycemia (11.1%) and 5 cases with unexplained causes (55.5%). Conclusion Infants after operation for ROP are more prone to apnea, and pediatricians and ophthalmologists are required to collaborate in the perioperative care.

Key words: retinopathy of prematurity, operation, apnea