Intravitreal Injection

What are intravitreal injections?

Intravitreal injections are procedures that use a sterile needle to place medications directly inside the vitreous cavity. This area is filled with a gel-like fluid known as vitreous humor gel. 

These injections can help treat numerous eye health conditions. Age-related macular degeneration, retinal vein occlusion, uveitis, and diabetic retinopathy are among the most common issues treated using intravitreal injections. 

Several types of drugs can be administered using this approach, including:

• Corticosteroids
• Anti-VEGF drugs
• Antibiotics
• Antifungals

Placing medications directly within the eye is a good way to begin seeing results as swiftly as possible. 

What happens during intravitreal injections?

These injections are done in-office on an outpatient basis. Anesthetic medication ensures you can rest comfortably during the injection, so there’s no need to worry about pain. 

Your eye and eyelid are cleansed to eliminate bacteria and prevent further eye issues. A special device called an eye speculum helps keep the eyelid open, allowing Dr. Murthy easy access. You’re awake and alert during this process, and may be asked to look in a certain direction to facilitate the injection process. 

As Dr. Murthy places the injection, you may feel a sensation of pressure, but there is no pain or significant discomfort. The entire process, including prep time, usually takes just 10-15 minutes. 

Are intravitreal injections safe?

When performed by a skilled eye health specialist like Dr. Murthy, intravitreal injections are very safe. Severe complications are rare, and you learn the signs of each potential complication so you know what to look for and whether to come back to the office in the days following your injection. 

You can usually return to normal activities after your appointment. However, you should call the office if you notice:

• Pain or discomfort in the eye
• Decreased vision
• Increased floaters in your vision
• Increased sensitivity to light

It’s normal to feel as if there is something in your eye for a period of time after your injection. These sensations are often caused by the solution used to clean the eye prior to the injection. Artificial tears can reduce discomfort and relieve symptoms of dry eye after your treatment.  

Expect to come in for a follow-up visit around 4-6 weeks after your injection. Dr. Murthy checks to see how well the injected medication is working, and lets you know if additional treatment is needed. 

Some conditions require repeated intravitreal injections. Researchers are hard at work developing longer-acting treatment options that could reduce the need for multiple intravitreal injections. 

If you’re ready to learn more, call the office today to book a visit. Online scheduling is also an option, and it takes just moments to complete.