• Royal Bolton recognised as an outstanding performer for screening eye condition in preterm babies
• 9% of babies at Bolton screened for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), above national average
• ROP is a condition that can affect babies’ eyes if born very early or underweight

Royal Bolton Hospital has been officially recognised as an outstanding performer for a screening test that identifies a sight-threatening eye condition in preterm babies.

The Neonatal Unit screens babies born at less than 32 weeks of pregnancy or of a birthweight under 1501g and is at risk of developing retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a condition that affects blood vessels in babies eyes and can cause severe problems with vision.

An annual audit by the National Neonatal Audit Programme (NNAP) found Bolton had a screening rate of 95.9%, significantly above the national average of 80%, ensuring at risk babies are able to receive treatment before it becomes severe and preventing the risk of sight loss.

Dr Dinakar Seshadri, Consultant in Neonatal Intensive Care at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said:

ROP is largely preventable and for most premature babies is mild and will get better by itself, but for some it can be severe and lead to partial or full blindness.

“During ROP screening, our experienced nurses and doctors use a special camera or lens to help us see the baby’s retina and understand whether treatment is needed. Picking this up in a timely manner and treating it ensures prevention of potential sight-threatening retinal damage and this has a significant positive impact on their quality of life.

“Our screening success is down to the dedication and commitment of Dr Kalyan Guduru from our Ophthalmology Unit, Sister Kelly Priestley, ROP Nurse, our Data Clerk, Lisa Levinshon, and the wider Neonatal team.

“This recognition from the National Neonatal Audit Programme is a testament to the work of our staff who make sure as many babies as possible receive the high-quality care they need.

According to the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, ROP is found in 60% of babies weighing less than 1501 grams at birth; in most of these babies, the ROP is only mild.

If people have any questions about their baby’s eyesight they should speak to the nurses or doctors in charge of their babies care, or their GP.