What Are Intravitreal Injections Used For?

Intravitreal injections have become a vital treatment method in modern ophthalmology, offering hope to patients with serious retinal conditions. These injections deliver medication directly into the eye, targeting specific areas to treat or manage diseases that could otherwise lead to significant vision loss or blindness. In this article, we’ll explore the use of intravitreal injections, their success rates, and their role in managing conditions like geographic atrophy, a severe form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Understanding Intravitreal Injections

Intravitreal injections involve the administration of medication directly into the vitreous humor, the clear gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina. This method allows for high concentrations of medication to reach the retina and other critical parts of the eye, providing targeted treatment with minimal systemic absorption.

These injections are used to treat various retinal conditions, including:

• Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Especially in the wet form, where abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina, intravitreal injections can help reduce leakage and swelling.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: Used to treat swelling of the retina (macular edema) due to diabetes, intravitreal injections can help control inflammation and prevent further damage.
• Retinal Vein Occlusion: This condition involves blocked veins in the retina, leading to swelling and fluid accumulation. Injections can reduce these symptoms and preserve vision.
• Endophthalmitis: An infection inside the eye, often following surgery or trauma, can be treated with antibiotics or antifungal agents administered via intravitreal injection.

What is the Success Rate of Intravitreal Injections?

The success rate of intravitreal injections varies depending on the condition being treated and the specific medication used. Generally, these injections have proven highly effective in managing and treating retinal diseases. For example:

• Anti-VEGF Injections: These are commonly used for wet AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion. Anti-VEGF medications, such as ranibizumab (Lucentis), aflibercept (Eylea), and bevacizumab (Avastin), inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduce fluid leakage. Clinical studies have shown that these treatments can significantly improve or stabilize vision in a large percentage of patients.
• Steroid Injections: Used to treat inflammation and macular edema, steroid injections can be effective, particularly in diabetic patients. However, they carry a risk of side effects, such as increased intraocular pressure and cataract formation.

The Role of Intravitreal Injections in Managing Geographic Atrophy

Geographic atrophy, an advanced form of dry AMD, is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. It affects approximately 8 million people worldwide, accounting for around 20% of all AMD cases. This condition involves the progressive degeneration of retinal cells, leading to the gradual loss of central vision.

While there is no cure for geographic atrophy, intravitreal injections may play a role in managing the progression of the disease. Research is ongoing to develop new treatments that can slow the degenerative process and preserve vision for as long as possible.

What to Expect During an Intravitreal Injection

The procedure for an intravitreal injection is generally quick and performed in an outpatient setting. The eye is numbed with anesthetic drops, and the injection is administered using a fine needle. Patients may experience mild discomfort, but the procedure is typically well-tolerated.

After the injection, patients are monitored for any immediate side effects, such as pain, redness, or changes in vision. It's important to follow your retina specialist's instructions and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor the treatment's effectiveness and manage any potential complications.

Take Charge of Your Eye Health

Intravitreal injections have revolutionized the treatment of retinal diseases, offering hope to patients facing potentially debilitating conditions. If you have been diagnosed with a retinal condition or are experiencing symptoms such as vision loss or distortion, it's crucial to consult a retina specialist.

To explore the most effective treatment options for your retinal condition, connect with a Retina Consultants of America doctor today. With over 200 clinic locations across the country, our network of practices consists of the leading retina specialists in the United States. Find a top-rated retina specialist near you.