retinopathy of prematurity
Pronunciation: ret-ih-NOP-uh-thee
Also written as: ROP — Retinopathy Of Prematurity
Eye condition in premature infants that influences anesthetic management due to sensitivity to oxygen levels.
Full Definition
A potentially blinding eye disorder that affects premature infants, characterized by abnormal blood vessel development in the retina. The condition is closely linked to oxygen exposure and gestational age at birth, with higher oxygen concentrations potentially worsening the disease. In pediatric anesthesia, managing patients with ROP requires careful attention to oxygen saturation targets, typically maintaining levels between 88-95% rather than normal adult targets of 95-100%. Anesthesiologists must balance the need for adequate oxygenation with the risk of exacerbating retinal damage through excessive oxygen exposure.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify target oxygen saturation ranges when ROP is present.
In Context
- "The former 26-week infant with retinopathy of prematurity required oxygen saturation targets of 88-95% during surgery." — Anesthetic management plan
- "Due to retinopathy of prematurity history, the anesthesiologist avoided high-concentration oxygen therapy." — Clinical decision documentation