# A Multidisciplinary Approach in the Management of Aggressive Retinopathy of Prematurity With Bleb-Like Posterior Combined Retinal Detachment

**Authors:** K Shreeya Jain, Akash Belenje

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.103144 · Cureus · 2026-02-07

## TL;DR

This paper discusses the treatment of a rare eye condition in premature infants using a coordinated team approach and specialized procedures.

## Contribution

The paper presents a novel multidisciplinary approach for managing aggressive retinopathy of prematurity with bleb-like retinal detachment.

## Key findings

- Prompt laser photocoagulation and vitrectomy improved retinal attachment in both infants.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration and timely interventions led to successful outcomes.
- Maintaining hemoglobin levels and regular follow-up were crucial for recovery.

## Abstract

We report two cases of bleb-like combined retinal detachment (BLRD) in infants with aggressive retinopathy of prematurity (A-ROP). Both cases involved premature infants born at 28 weeks of gestation with complex postnatal courses, who were referred to our clinic for ROP management. On presentation, both babies were diagnosed with stage 4B ROP in zone 1 with bilateral BLRD. Indirect ophthalmoscope-guided laser photocoagulation under topical anesthesia was performed on the same day. Pediatric clearance for surgery was obtained. Both infants underwent blood transfusions for anemia. Subsequently, 25-gauge lens-sparing vitrectomy with endolaser and fluid-air exchange was performed in both cases. Postoperative courses were uneventful. Follow-up examinations under anesthesia allowed for laser augmentation in the first case; no additional avascular retina was noted in the second case, and no further laser treatment was applied. At the most recent follow-up, both babies exhibited well-attached retinas with regressing ROP. Refraction was performed, glasses were prescribed, and close monitoring was advised.

BLRD in zone 1 ROP presents significant therapeutic challenges. Successful management relies on prompt and coordinated teamwork among ophthalmologists, neonatologists, anesthetists, and opticians. Optimal outcomes depend on maintaining adequate hemoglobin levels, timely surgical management, examinations under anesthesia (EUA), laser augmentation, visual rehabilitation, consistent follow-up, strong parental involvement, and ongoing multidisciplinary collaboration.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** retinopathy of prematurity (MONDO:0006952), anemia (MONDO:0002280)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (taxon 9606)

## Full-text entities

- **Genes:** VEGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A) [NCBI Gene 7422] {aka L-VEGF, MVCD1, VEGF, VPF}
- **Diseases:** LIO (MESH:D051556), ROP (MESH:C536382), A-ROP (MESH:D012178), aggressive (MESH:D010554), prematurity (MESH:C536271), retinopathy (MESH:D058437), respiratory distress syndrome (MESH:D012128), BLRD (MESH:D012163), RD (MESH:D000077733), hypoxia (MESH:D000860), retinal tears (MESH:D012167), blindness (MESH:D001766), anemia (MESH:D000740), vision loss (MESH:D014786), retinal hemorrhage (MESH:D012166), retinal vascular condition (MESH:D012173)
- **Chemicals:** oxygen (MESH:D010100), Ranibizumab (MESH:D000069579)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## Figures

2 figures with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12969225/full.md

## References

13 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12969225/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12969225