---
title: What is an intravitreal injection?
description: "An intravitreal injection delivers medication directly into the vitreous cavity of the eye. It is widely used to treat retinal and macular diseases. ## Conditions Treated Anti-VEGF drugs and steroids injected into the eye help manage wet age-related macular degeneration,…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/treatments-procedures/what-is-an-intravitreal-injection/"
updated: "2025-12-12"
category: "Treatments & Procedures"
---

# What is an intravitreal injection?

An intravitreal injection delivers medication directly into the vitreous cavity of the eye. It is widely used to treat retinal and macular diseases.

## Conditions Treated

Anti-VEGF drugs and steroids injected into the eye help manage wet age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular oedema, retinal vein occlusions, and some inflammatory or infectious conditions. Repeated injections are often needed over time.

- Given under topical anaesthetic with antiseptic preparation
- A very fine needle passes through the white of the eye
- The procedure is quick and generally well tolerated
- Vision and retinal scans monitor response between visits

## Risks and Follow-Up

Serious complications such as infection, retinal detachment, or significant bleeding are rare but important to recognise early. Patients receive clear safety-net advice about warning symptoms.

- Mild redness, irritation, or floaters are common for a short period
- Any increase in pain, marked redness, or sudden vision loss requires urgent review
- Long-term treatment plans are individualised to disease activity
- Stopping injections prematurely may risk vision loss in active disease