Intravitreal injections (IVI) are eye injections directed straight into vitreous, near the retina at the back of the eye, to treat a number of eye diseases such as wet age-related macular degeneration, diabetic eye diseases, retinal vein occlusions. The medicine injected varies depending on the condition being treated, including macular degeneration and diabetic maculopathy. The benefits of this procedure greatly help to prevent the worsening of and in some cases improve vision.
Prior to the procedure, drops of local anaesthetic are used to deaden the eye to further minimise any discomfort. The eye is cleaned and a dressing is applied to protect the other eye. During the procedure, little or no discomfort should be felt from the eye injection; however, there may be some mild pressure sensation. A small needle is used to deliver the medication. The procedure takes about 30 minutes including preparation time.
For at least 48 hours following the procedure, patients are advised to keep their treated eye clean and ensure it remains dry. Your ophthalmologist will typically recommend the use of eye drops to help lubricate the eye because it is common for the eye to feel gritty after the injection.
Your vision may be slightly blurry however this will pass. Some patients require the use of an oral painkiller, but this is not common.
Intravitreal injections (eye injection treatments) are given to patients under strict guidelines and by specialist ophthalmologists. If you are concerned about this procedure or have any questions relating to pain management or the success of an intravitreal injection call Westside Eye Clinic in West Brisbane. With a referral from your optometrist or GP, our team will organise a no-obligation consultation with Dr. Joseph Park.
Westside Eye Clinic strives to provide you with best possible eye care.
Dr Joseph Park is a Specialist Ophthalmologist (an Eye Doctor) who trained in Brisbane and undertook further studies at Moorfields Eye Hospital and Western Eye Hospital in London, United Kingdom.