Intravitreal injections for macular degeneration
Visual capacity depends on the correct functioning of all parts of the eye, including the macula. This is one of the most important parts of the eye and is located in the center of the retina. In this article, we explain what intravitreal injections for macular degeneration are, what types exist, and how they work.
The macula is the structure we use when we focus on an object and is therefore responsible for our most precise vision. Thanks to it, we can differentiate people’s faces, appreciate small details, distinguish colors, and perceive movement. For this reason, treatment is vital for any pathology associated with the macula. One of the most common examples is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This usually appears in people over 65, affecting the macula or an area of the retina near it. Consequently, the person’s central vision capacity is reduced.
Depending on its type and stage, macular degeneration can be treated in different ways. Among them are intravitreal injections, which help slow down vision loss and, in some cases, recover it.
What are intravitreal injections for macular degeneration?
As the name suggests, these are injections applied directly into the vitreous (the internal gel of the eye). This allows the drug to act optimally. It is not possible to achieve this with oral medications, as they do not provide adequate absorption in the area or in the desired proportions.
The injections are performed with a very fine needle, following local anesthesia of the eye and cleaning of the area. After the drug is applied, a topical antibiotic is prescribed to be used for several days following the injection. Treatment with intravitreal injections must always be performed by a specialist ophthalmologist in a room specifically equipped and sterilized for this purpose.
Although it may seem otherwise, intravitreal injections for macular degeneration are not a painful treatment because they are performed under local anesthesia. However, it is important that they are carried out by a qualified professional with experience and in a trusted center with specially equipped rooms.
Treatment with intravitreal injections very rarely produces complications or side effects, making it a safe and well-tolerated procedure.
Types of intravitreal injections for macular degeneration
The wet or exudative form of age-related macular degeneration is treated with drugs known as anti-angiogenics. These include aflibercept and ranibizumab, which are generally used for this type of condition.
For more information about our intravitreal injection treatments for macular degeneration or to schedule a visit with our team, you can contact the García de Oteyza Clinic in Barcelona at info@garciadeoteyza.es or by calling 93 418 67 89
