AIM: To observe the clinical effects of laser photocoagulation for retinopathy of prematurity(ROP)and to identify the potential risk factors for the unfavorable outcomes.

METHODS: Forty-six ROP infants(89 eyes)underwent laser photocoagulation were analyzed retrospectively. Among the 89 eyes, 57 eyes were type I pre-threshold and 32 eyes were threshold disease. Laser photocoagulation with 810nm wavelength using binocular indirect ophthalmoscope was performed in all the infants. While changes of ROP and retinal structural outcome after laser treatment were to be followed up. The results were divided into regressed group and progressed group. The relationships between anatomical outcome changes and localization of lesions, occurring in course of ROP, number of laser spots, ventilation need, sepsis, pneumonia of newborn et al were analyzed.

RESULTS: In the 89 eyes, ROP regressed completely in 79(89%), unfavorable structural outcomes were observed in 10(11%). The difference in birth weight(P=0.495), gestational weeks(P=0.668), age at laser photocoagulation(P=0.143)were not statistically significant between the two groups. Zone I disease(P=0.035), threshold disease(P=0.017), aggressive posterior ROP(P=0.000)and number of laser spots(P=0.031)in progression group were more than regressed group, the difference were statistically significant. Logistic regressive analysis indicated that aggressive posterior ROP(OR=12.167, 95% CI: 2.733-54.154, P=0.001)emerged as primary risk factors for anatomical outcome after laser treatment.

CONCLUSION: Laser photocoagulation is an effective approach to treat type I pre-threshold and threshold ROP. Aggressive posterior ROP is closely related to prognosis after laser treatment, which is easier to reach retinal detachment than other ROP.