Management of retinopathy of prematurity in the anti-VEGF era: Consensus and recommendations from the Taiwan Pediatric Retina (TPR) Group.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is the leading cause of childhood blindness, particularly in preterm infants. In Taiwan, the absence of national guidelines and the variability in clinical practice have highlighted the need for locally adapted consensus recommendations. METHODS An expert panel of eleven ophthalmologists from eight tertiary centers in Taiwan convened to develop a consensus on ROP management. Through a structured process that included key question formulation, systematic literature review, iterative discussion, and voting, the panel established consensus statements. Agreement was defined as ≥75% of panelists voting "agree" or "strongly agree" using a five-point Likert scale. RESULTS Consensus recommendations were developed across three major domains: screening, treatment, and follow-up. For screening, the panel endorsed criteria commonly used in Taiwan-gestational age <32 weeks or birth weight <1500 g-but emphasized the need for population-based validation. Both anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents and laser photocoagulation were recognized as acceptable first-line treatments for type 1 ROP, with individualized treatment decisions based on disease characteristics, anesthesia risk, and follow-up capacity. Guidelines were also established for the management of ROP reactivation, procedural protocols, and agent selection. For follow-up, the panel recommended extended surveillance after anti-VEGF therapy and outlined the criteria for identifying and monitoring persistent avascular retina. Follow-up schedules were proposed to detect long-term ocular and neurodevelopmental complications. CONCLUSIONS This consensus provides updated evidence-based guidance for ROP care in Taiwan, addressing both traditional and emerging clinical challenges. These recommendations aim to standardize care practices while remaining adaptable to future research and evolving clinical needs.