Intravitreal Injections
Targeted Therapy for Retinal Diseases
Intravitreal Injections are a revolutionary method of delivering medication directly into the eye (vitreous cavity) to treat serious retinal conditions. This targeted approach allows for a high concentration of medicine to reach the retina with minimal systemic side effects.
These injections have become the first line of treatment for many conditions that previously had limited options, significantly helping to preserve and improve vision.
Common Conditions Treated
- Diabetic Macular Edema: Swelling in the central retina due to diabetes.
- Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Abnormal blood vessel growth causing vision loss in older adults.
- Retinal Vein Occlusion: Blockage in retinal veins leading to fluid leakage.
- Uveitis: Inflammation inside the eye.
Types of Medications
- Anti-VEGF Agents: (e.g., Lucentis, Avastin, Accentrix, Eylea) These block the protein responsible for abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage.
- Steroids: (e.g., Ozurdex Implant, Triamcinolone) Potent anti-inflammatory agents used to reduce swelling.
- Antibiotics/Antifungals: Used in cases of severe eye infections (Endophthalmitis).
Common Questions about Eye Injections
Most patients are surprised by how painless it is. We use anesthetic drops to numb the surface of the eye. You might feel a brief pressure or pinch, but no significant pain.
You may see a small spot or floater in your vision, which is the medication bubble; this usually clears up. Your eye might be slightly red or gritty for a day. Serious complications are very rare.
This varies greatly. Chronic conditions like Wet AMD or Diabetic Retinopathy often require a series of injections over several months or years to maintain vision. Your doctor will customize a "Treat and Extend" plan for you.