Intravitreal (IVT) Injections

The IVT Injection Procedure

Intravitreal (IVT) injections are the standard treatment for Wet AMD, Diabetic Macular Oedema, and Retinal Vein Occlusions. They deliver medication (Anti-VEGF) directly into the vitreous cavity of the eye to stop abnormal blood vessels leaking and growing.

1. Preparation: Local anesthesia drops numb the eye; the area is cleaned with an iodine antiseptic solution to prevent infection.
2. Injection: A very fine needle delivers the medication into the white part of the eye. The actual injection takes only a few seconds.
3. Sensation: You may feel a slight pressure or a pinch, but it is generally painless. You may see a swirl of fluid or a bubble in your vision immediately afterwards.

Treatment Schedule

Treatment usually starts with a "loading phase" of one injection every 4 weeks for 3 months. After this, the interval between injections may be gradually extended depending on how your eye responds (a "treat and extend" regimen).

Risks

• Common: A blood spot on the white of the eye (subconjunctival haemorrhage), grittiness for 24-48 hours, temporary floaters.
• Rare but Serious (approx 1 in 1000): Severe infection inside the eye (endophthalmitis), retinal detachment.