Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration develops when the central part of the retina (macula) does not work effectively as it used to. There are two main types: dry AMD and wet AMD. Dry AMD has damaged cells by a build-up of deposits called drusen. Vision loss could be gradual, occurring over many years. Some people with dry AMD go on to develop wet AMD
Wet AMD (neovascular AMD) caused by an abnormal blood vessels underneath the macula and damage its cells. Wet AMD is more serious than dry AMD. Without treatment, vision can deteriorate within days
Intravitreal injections
Anti VEGF intravitreal injections are used to treat a wet Macular Degeneration (wAMD)
There are several anti-VEGF drugs available, but three are most commonly used. Two of these, ranibizumab (brand name Lucentis®) and aflibercept (brand name Eylea®), were designed specifically for the treatment of AMD. A third drug, bevacizumab (brand name Avastin®), was originally developed to treat various types of cancer, but is commonly used "off-label" in patients with AMD
There are also intravitreal steroid implants, such as Ozurdex and Illuvien, available to improve the swelling of the macula related to Diabetic Retinopathy and Retinal Vein Occlusion
Intrevitreal injection & Risks
Intravitreal injection is performed as a day case under topical anaesthesia or small local subconjunctival anaesthesia. Infection is uncommon complication of all surgical eye procedures and is potentially sight threatening condition. If a significant visual deterioration, pain, red eye are noticed after recent injection, prompt ophthalmic examination and advise should be searched
Retinal Detachment is very unlikely complication, but described amongst the literature and any shadow, new floaters and flashing lights need to be reported
Internal bleed is very uncommon complication. External conjunctiva bleed is common and is a cosmetic effect of the procedure, which disappears after several days with no consequences