Intraocular Treatment

The injection of medications (Avastin/Lucentis/Eylea/Kenalog/Antibiotics) inside the eye is increasingly common in the treatment of certain forms of Macular Degeneration, vascular problems, diabetic macular edema, inflammations and infections. More recently, there is a new intraocular treatment (Jetrea) for vitreomacular traction syndrome as well. The procedure is performed very frequently in our clinic. It is not a long or uncomfortable experience.

There are common phases to these procedures:

1. Pre-treatment antibiotic drops may be recommended.

2. The cleansing the outer eye and tears with antibiotics and antiseptics.

3. The numbing of the eye, usually with topical anesthetic drops/gel, or a Q-Tip with a numbing agent.

4. The holding apart of the lids with a speculum – to prevent blinking. Followed by the injection of the agent through a very thin part of the outer wall of the eye. The patient feels a small sensation of pressure.

5. The patient may be required to use antibiotic drops after the procedure.

A small bleed or blood spot on the white of the eye, where the injection was given is common and will clear on it own. They are usually painless and of only cosmetic concern. Rarely patient may see a dark spot floating around due to a small air bubble injected. This usually clears within a day or two. The eye may be pink and have irritation with slight discharge for 1 to 2 days after the injection. Any increasing pain, swelling or redness in the days following the treatment MUST be reported to the doctor at once as it could indicate an eye infection, as this is an emergency.