Evaluating Hypoxia During Bedside Ranibizumab Injections for Retinopathy of Prematurity in Premature Infants Across Multiple Hospitals

What this Trial Is About

Retinopathy of prematurity ROP is a serious eye condition affecting premature infants and can lead to childhood blindness. This research evaluates the occurrence and severity of low oxygen levels hypoxia during bedside injections of ranibizumab, a treatment for ROP, in premature infants across multiple hospitals in the Al Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. The study aims to fill a knowledge gap about breathing problems during these injections under topical anesthesia in this vulnerable population. The study looks at infants who received intravitreal ranibizumab injections at the bedside in neonatal intensive care units NICUs from July 2020 through June 2026. The injections use a standard protocol involving a small needle, antiseptic application, and close follow-up for 1 to 2 weeks after treatment. Oxygen levels are continuously monitored with pulse oximetry during and shortly after the procedure to detect hypoxia, which is classified by severity. Data collected includes demographic, maternal, perinatal, and treatment details. Participants oxygen saturation and other vital signs are monitored closely during the procedure to identify any drops in oxygen levels. Researchers analyze these events along with patient and treatment factors to understand risks. The primary outcome measures the occurrence of hypoxia within one year. The study uses retrospective data and includes follow-up information to assess safety and incidence of low oxygen events during and after ranibizumab injections for ROP.

Incidence of Hypoxia During Intravitreal Anti-VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) Injections for Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) Under Topical Anesthesia