An extremely premature baby born after 24 weeks of pregnancy has had its sight preserved following specialist treatment at Elche General University Hospital. The Generalitat Valenciana has described the case as an example of the care available for babies born at the limits of viability.

The baby had advanced retinopathy of prematurity, a condition in which abnormal blood vessel growth can damage the retina and lead to retinal detachment or blindness. Specialists Cristian Fernández and Manuel Baeza administered a biological anti-VEGF drug using a minimally invasive technique. The treatment slows abnormal blood vessel growth and reduces the risk of irreversible vision loss.

Ophthalmology and neonatal intensive care teams worked together throughout the procedure. The neonatal team prepared, sedated and monitored the baby, while controlling breathing, heart rate and oxygen saturation. Carrying out the treatment within the neonatal intensive care environment reduced the need to move the fragile patient and limited exposure to changes in temperature, noise and handling.

Retinopathy of prematurity mainly affects very premature babies whose retinal blood vessels have not fully developed. Early screening and regular eye examinations are essential to identify the condition and treat it before permanent damage occurs.