Intravitreal Injections
Certain eye conditions cause vascular leakage at the back of the eye, leading to distortion and blurred vision. Effective treatment is available in the form of anti–vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) intraocular injections.
Overview
Anti-VEGF injections help stabilise abnormal blood vessels and reduce or prevent leakage at the back of the eye. Treatment can be given promptly to prevent permanent damage and, in some cases, help restore central vision.
Anti-VEGF injections are commonly used in the treatment of diabetic maculopathy, retinal vascular occlusions, and wet age-related macular degeneration.
Treatment Options
• Anti-VEGF intraocular injection therapy
• Loading phase with monthly injections over several months
• Ongoing maintenance treatment with intermittent injections
Exclusions & Limitations
Treatment suitability depends on the underlying eye condition and overall ocular health.
Benefits
• Outpatient procedure (approximately 5–10 minutes)
• Performed under topical anaesthetic eye drops
• Helps preserve vision in urgent cases of macular swelling
• Same-day injection to avoid treatment delay and maximise response
Risks & Complications
Intravitreal injections are a commonly performed procedure. Mild and temporary effects may include:
• Grittiness, usually settling within 24 hours
• Redness, usually settling within 24 hours
• Floaters, occasionally due to small air bubbles, settling within 24 hours
• Mild discomfort during the injection
Important but uncommon risks include:
• Infection, which may lead to permanent vision loss (risk approximately 1 in 1800)
• Retinal detachment
• Raised intraocular pressure requiring prompt treatment
Procedure Details
- Duration: 5–10 minutes
- Anaesthesia: Topical anaesthetic eye drops
- Recovery: Usually within 24 hours
Experience
With over 17 years’ experience as a Newcastle-based NHS consultant ophthalmic surgeon and medical retina specialist, I provide expert care aimed at preserving vision and preventing permanent sight loss.