Specialists from HIMFG highlighted that early ophthalmological evaluation in premature babies is crucial to prevent severe complications. Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) remains one of the main preventable causes of childhood blindness, making early detection and timely intervention key strategies in specialized neonatal care. However, they stressed that all at-risk cases must be systematically evaluated due to the disease's potential to progress. Timely evaluation: a critical window for intervention. The specialist emphasized that the timing of the diagnosis is determinant for the patients' visual prognosis. She indicated that premature babies should undergo an ophthalmological evaluation around the first month of life, and in severe cases, treatment must begin within less than 72 hours to avoid irreversible complications. Institutional model: continuous surveillance from neonatal therapy. The Hospital Infantil de México 'Federico Gómez' (HIMFG) has implemented a structured early detection program that includes weekly ophthalmological reviews in neonatal intensive care units, in close coordination with the neonatology staff. This approach allows for the early identification of at-risk patients and ensures continuous clinical follow-up, strengthening the response to disease progression. Specialized treatments and cutting-edge technology. The HIMFG's care model includes comprehensive intervention based on advanced therapies, such as: laser photocoagulation to stop the abnormal growth of blood vessels; the use of specialized medications to control disease progression; high-specialty surgery in complex cases. These strategies address varying degrees of severity, aiming to preserve patients' visual function. Extending the model: telemedicine and national coverage. In addition to in-hospital care, HIMFG has promoted extramural actions and the use of telemedicine to support other health units in the timely detection of ROP in different regions of the country. This approach expands diagnostic coverage and helps reduce gaps in access to specialized services for vulnerable populations. Call to action: the role of mothers and fathers. Finally, the institution called on mothers, fathers, and caregivers to bring premature newborns for their ophthalmological evaluation during the first month of life, highlighting that timely care can make a significant difference in visual development.
Early Ophthalmological Evaluation in Premature Babies is Crucial
HIMFG specialists emphasize that early detection and timely treatment of retinopathy of prematurity are key to preventing childhood blindness. The implemented model ensures continuous monitoring and access to advanced technologies.
