Intravitreal injections are an ophthalmic procedure in which a medication is administered directly into the vitreous space of the eye. This technique allows for localized delivery of the medication, achieving higher concentration and effectiveness at the affected site.
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, under topical anesthesia, to minimize patient discomfort. The ophthalmologist disinfects and prepares the eye, and with the help of a thin, long needle, injects the medication through the sclera, the white outer layer of the eye, reaching the vitreous space. The use of real-time imaging techniques allows the ophthalmologist to ensure optimal precision in the injection.
Conditions Treated with Intravitreal Injections
Intravitreal injections have become a treatment of choice for various ocular pathologies, including:
- Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD): In its wet forms, anti-angiogenic injections can slow disease progression and preserve vision.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: Anti-angiogenics and corticosteroids can help manage the disease and prevent severe complications such as blindness.
- Retinal Vascular Occlusions: Anti-angiogenics can help dissolve blood clots and restore normal blood flow to the retina.
- Other Conditions: Intravitreal injections can also be beneficial for treating other ocular conditions such as diabetic macular edema, choroidal neovascularization, and retinitis.
Advantages of Intravitreal Injections:
- Localized Medication Delivery: Allows for greater concentration and effectiveness of treatment.
- Minimally Invasive Procedure: Does not require surgery and is associated with fewer risks and complications.
- Effective for Various Conditions: Can be useful in treating a wide range of ocular pathologies.
- Potential Vision Preservation: In some conditions, it can slow disease progression and prevent vision loss.
