Retina laser treatment for premature babies now available at IGMH

Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) has introduced retina laser treatment for premature infants, a critical advancement in pediatric eye care aimed at preventing blindness caused by retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

IGMH CEO Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq Haleem announced the launch in a Facebook post, calling it “a special treatment to protect the vision of our most vulnerable babies, premature babies.” He added that the service will be available without barriers to children who require it.

ROP is a serious eye disorder affecting premature infants, especially those born before 32 weeks or weighing less than 1500 grams. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow in the retina due to incomplete vascular development, potentially leading to scarring and retinal detachment if left untreated.

Laser therapy is the current global standard for treating type 1 ROP. It involves laser photocoagulation of the peripheral avascular retina, which helps shrink abnormal vessels and prevent further growth. This minimally invasive procedure is typically performed under topical anesthesia and aims to preserve central vision while minimizing long-term complications.

CEO Haleem thanked the doctors and nurses of IGMH’s Ophthalmology Department for making the service available locally. The move is expected to reduce the need for overseas treatment and ensure timely intervention for affected infants.

IGMH joins EyeCare Hospital, which began offering ROP laser treatment in late 2023, in expanding access to specialized neonatal eye care in the Maldives.