SAFER-ROP: Updated Protocol for Anti-VEGF Injections for Retinopathy of Prematurity.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To describe a safe and dependable protocol for intravitreal injections for the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SAFER is an acronym used to describe the injection protocol and includes (S)hort needle (4-mm length), (A)ntiseptic/antibiotic (5% to 10% topical betadine), (F)ollowup (48 to 72 hours post-injection), (E)xtra attention to detail (clean environment, injection site 0.75 mm to 1.0 mm posterior to limbus), and (R)echeck (1 to 2 weeks following injection and until mature vascularization or laser).

RESULTS

No cases of cataract formation, endophthalmitis, or vitreous hemorrhage using this technique were reported in a recent retrospective chart review.

CONCLUSION

This protocol is a safe way to inject anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and to monitor ROP progression following injection. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2020;51:402-406.].