What are Intravitreal Injections?
Intravitreal injections, the most common eye procedure in the world, are used to deliver medications directly into the vitreous humor, (the gel-like substance that fills back of the eye,) and the retina. This procedure is able to treat a variety of retinal conditions by providing targeted therapy to the affected areas.
What Conditions Can Be Treated with Intravitreal Injections?
Intravitreal injections are very commonly used to manage several retinal and macular conditions, including:
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- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections, such as Eylea, Vabysmo, or Avastin, can help reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage in the macula, which is essential for maintaining the vision.
- Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): Medications like anti-VEGF agents or corticosteroids (e.g., Ozurdex) can reduce fluid accumulation in the macula caused by diabetes, improving vision and reducing swelling.
- Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO): Anti-VEGF injections or corticosteroids can address retinal swelling and leakage caused by blockages in the retinal veins.
- Uveitis: Corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation in the eye caused by uveitis, a condition that affects the middle layer of the eye.
- Macular Edema: Treatment with medications that target inflammation or abnormal blood vessel growth can help reduce swelling and preserve vision.
Why are Intravitreal Injections Performed?
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- Targeted Treatment: Delivers medication directly to the retina, allowing for a high concentration of the drug at the site where it is needed most.
- Effective Management: Can significantly improve vision and control symptoms in conditions like AMD, DME, and RVO.
- Minimally Invasive: The procedure is relatively quick and performed on an outpatient basis, with minimal downtime.
What are the Risks and Considerations for Intravitreal Injections?
While intravitreal injections are generally safe, there are potential risks and side effects to consider:
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- Infection: As with any procedure involving injections, there is a small risk of infection (endophthalmitis).
- Bleeding: Minor bleeding or bruising at the injection site is possible. This is generally harmless, but might be aesthetically displeasing.
- Increased Intraocular Pressure: In some cases, the injection may cause a temporary increase in eye pressure.
- Vision Changes: Temporary blurriness or discomfort may occur following the injection.
Follow-Up and Management?
After an intravitreal injection, regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and manage any potential side effects. The frequency of injections varies depending on the condition being treated and the response to therapy.
For more information about intravitreal injections or to schedule a consultation, contact us today at (561) 499-8830!
Learn more about Intravitreal Injections:
American Academy of Ophthalmology: Eye Injections.
American Society of Retina Specialists: Intravitreal Injections.
