Stress Induced by Screening for Retinopathy of Prematurity - Should Speculum and Indentation Rather be Avoided

Stress Induced by Screening for Retinopathy of Prematurity - Should Speculum and Indentation Rather be Avoided

The purpose is to assess the hypothesis that indirect ophthalmoscopy for retinopathy of prematurity eye examination (ROPEE) screening without the use of a lid speculum and scleral indentation (speculum-free, SpF) is less painful/stressful than funduscopy with speculum (Sp) and scleral indentation.

A prospective randomized cross-over study was conducted for the comparison of the two techniques of funduscopy for ROPEE screening, i.e. with (Sp) or without (SpF) the use of a speculum and indentor. A random number table was used to allocate participants into either a) receiving Sp funduscopy on their first and SpF on their second screening examination a week later, or b) receiving SpF first and Sp a week later.

Inclusion Criteria:

Preterm neonates undergoing screening for ROP, i.e.

• with GA < 32weeks and/or BW < 1501grams
• infants of greater BW and GA with increased comorbidity, e.g. sepsis, prolonged need for oxygen supplementation etc., as judged by the attending neonatologist

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Severe clinical condition with unstable vital signs to the extent that stress is not desired and the examination need to be postponed.
2. Diagnosis of traumatic apoptosis of the corneal epithelium / corneal ulcer.
3. Neonates under sedative/analgesic treatment.
4. Intraventricular hemorrhage (III,IV degree), moderate/severe neurological impairment, other conditions that could alter pain response.