Cryotherapy versus laser photocoagulation for threshold retinopathy of prematurity: impact on early postoperative clinical recovery.

In a retrospective study in preterms treated with either cryotherapy (n= 16, 2000-2001) or laser photocoagulation (n= 19, 2002-2005) for threshold retinopathy, a significant decrease in duration of postoperative ventilation, in postoperative administration of analgesics and in time until regain of full enteral feeding was documented in infants who received laser photocoagulation. We therefore conclude that - compared to cryotherapy - laser treatment for threshold retinopathy is associated with a faster clinical postoperative recovery.