Intravitreal Anti-VEGF injections are a commonly used treatment for certain retinal conditions that cause abnormal blood vessel growth, fluid leakage, or swelling in the macula. Anti-VEGF medicines work by reducing the activity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which can contribute to retinal damage and vision problems.
This treatment may be recommended for conditions such as wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic macular edema, macular edema caused by retinal vein occlusion, and some forms of myopic choroidal neovascularization.
How Is the Treatment Performed?
The eye is cleaned carefully and numbing drops are applied to improve comfort. The medication is then delivered into the vitreous through a very fine needle. The procedure generally takes only a few minutes, although the complete visit may take longer because of preparation and post-treatment assessment.
What Are the Benefits?
Anti-VEGF treatment can help reduce abnormal retinal fluid and swelling and may help protect or improve vision, depending on the underlying condition and the individual's response. Some patients require a series of injections or ongoing monitoring based on retinal scans and their ophthalmologist's assessment.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Mild irritation, watering, or temporary redness can occur after an injection. Patients should follow their ophthalmologist's instructions and attend scheduled follow-ups. Urgent medical attention is needed for severe eye pain, increasing redness, significant vision loss, or unusual sensitivity to light.