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
