Intravitreal Injection
An intravitreal injection is a procedure in which medication is injected directly into the vitreous, the gel-like substance inside the eye. This treatment is commonly used to address a variety of retinal conditions, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), retinal vein occlusion, and infections like endophthalmitis. The medication delivered through intravitreal injections typically includes anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) agents, steroids, or antibiotics to reduce inflammation, prevent abnormal blood vessel growth, or treat infections within the eye.
At Desai Eye Institute, the procedure involves numbing the eye with topical anaesthetic drops before administering the injection. The eye is cleaned with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection. A fine needle is used to inject the medication into the vitreous cavity, usually through the white part of the eye (sclera), just below the retina. The procedure is quick and performed under sterile conditions, with minimal discomfort.
After the injection, patients are typically monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications. The procedure is generally safe and effective, offering significant improvements in managing retinal diseases.
Medical Equipment Needed for Intravitreal Injection
- Intravitreal Injection Medication (e.g., anti-VEGF agents, steroids)
- Sterile Needle (fine gauge for the injection)
- Syringe (for holding and administering the injection)
- Sterile Gloves (for hygiene and safety)
- Topical Anesthetic Drops (for numbing the eye)
- Antiseptic Solution (for cleaning the eye before the procedure)
- Sterile Drapes (to maintain a sterile field)
- Ocular Speculum (to keep the eyelids open during the procedure)
- Monitor (to observe for any immediate reactions post-injection)
- Post-Injection Eye Shield (to protect the eye after the procedure)