What Are These Conditions?
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD is a common eye condition that affects older adults and causes damage to the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. There are two types of AMD: dry and wet. Wet AMD, the more severe form, occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina, leaking fluid or blood and leading to vision loss. Intravitreal injections are used to treat wet AMD.
- Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that damages the blood vessels in the retina. These vessels can leak blood or fluid, leading to swelling, vision changes, and, if untreated, blindness. Intravitreal injections help control this condition by reducing inflammation and preventing further damage.
- Macular Edema
Macular Edema is the swelling of the macula due to fluid buildup, often associated with diabetes, vein occlusions, or other retinal conditions. The swelling distorts vision, making it blurry or wavy. Intravitreal injections can reduce this swelling and improve vision.
How Does the Diagnostic Process Work?
The process begins with a comprehensive eye examination. We start by testing your vision and examining your eyes to detect any signs of these conditions. If we notice any abnormalities, we proceed with more advanced diagnostic tools.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging test that provides a detailed view of the retina’s layers. It helps us detect fluid buildup, swelling, and other changes in the retina, which are often the early signs of AMD, Diabetic Retinopathy, or Macular Edema.
Once the diagnosis is confirmed, we discuss your treatment options, which often include intravitreal injections.
Why Intravitreal Injections?
Intravitreal injections involve delivering medication directly into the eye, specifically into the vitreous cavity. These injections allow the medication to reach the retina quickly and effectively. The goal is to prevent the growth of abnormal blood vessels, reduce fluid buildup, and stabilize or improve vision.
Medications We Use
- Avastin (Bevacizumab)
Originally developed for cancer treatment, Avastin is widely used off-label to treat wet AMD, Diabetic Retinopathy, and Macular Edema. It works by inhibiting the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina.
- Eylea (Aflibercept)
Eylea is a specialized medication that blocks the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduces fluid leakage in the retina. It is used to treat wet AMD, Diabetic Retinopathy, and Macular Edema.
- Lucentis (Ranibizumab)
Lucentis is specifically designed for eye conditions and is FDA-approved for treating wet AMD, Diabetic Retinopathy, and Macular Edema. It helps prevent vision loss by blocking the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reducing swelling.
- Vabysmo (Faricimab)
Vabysmo is a newer treatment option that works by targeting both abnormal blood vessel growth and inflammation. This dual-action approach can help manage wet AMD, Diabetic Retinopathy, and Macular Edema with fewer injections over time.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Intravitreal injections are performed in the operation theater and take only a few minutes. After numbing the eye with anesthetic drops, disinfection and draping of the eye, the medication is injected into the vitreous cavity using a very fine needle. The procedure is usually painless, and most patients experience only mild discomfort afterward. You may be asked to rest briefly after the injection, but you can usually return to your normal activities the same day.
Why Early Detection Is Key
These conditions can progress without obvious symptoms, which is why regular eye exams are critical, especially if you are at risk. Early detection allows us to intervene with treatments like intravitreal injections before significant vision loss occurs. With modern treatments like Avastin, Eylea, Lucentis, and Vabysmo, many patients are able to maintain or even improve their vision.
If you have any concerns about your eye health or are experiencing changes in your vision, please schedule an appointment with us. We are here to provide comprehensive care and the latest treatments to protect your sight.
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