Intravitreal injections are a common treatment for wet AMD. The injection places medication inside the eye, into the vitreous, so the medicine can reach the retina directly. In wet AMD, these injections, often described as anti-VEGF treatment, are commonly used to reduce leakage and control abnormal blood vessel growth in the macula.
What is an intravitreal injection?
An intravitreal injection is a medication injection placed inside the eye, into the vitreous, so medicine can reach the retina directly.
Why intravitreal injections are used in wet AMD
In wet AMD, injections are commonly used to reduce leakage and control abnormal blood vessel growth in the macula. These medicines are often described as anti-VEGF treatment.
What intravitreal injection treatment aims to do
The goal of intravitreal treatment for wet AMD is usually to:
- dry the retina
- limit further damage
- help preserve vision
In some patients, vision may also improve, but the main aim is to control disease activity.
How response to injections is monitored
Response is usually monitored with follow-up examinations and retinal imaging such as OCT. These tests help show whether fluid has improved, remained active, or returned.
Key takeaway
Intravitreal injections are a common treatment for wet AMD because they deliver medication directly where abnormal leakage is occurring.
Frequently asked questions
What is an intravitreal injection?
It is a medication injection placed inside the eye, into the vitreous, so medicine can reach the retina directly.
What is anti-VEGF treatment for wet AMD?
The injection medicines used in wet AMD are often described as anti-VEGF treatment. They are commonly used to reduce leakage and control abnormal blood vessel growth in the macula.
Do intravitreal injections for wet AMD improve vision?
The main aim is to control disease activity, dry the retina, limit further damage, and help preserve vision. In some patients, vision may also improve.
How do doctors know if the injections are working?
Response is usually monitored with follow-up examinations and retinal imaging such as OCT, which help show whether fluid has improved, remained active, or returned.
Retina care and referrals in Hamilton
Retina Consultants of Hamilton provides educational information on macular conditions, and Precision Retina Care accepts patient referrals from optometrists and referring physicians in the Hamilton area. Learn more about how wet AMD is managed or visit our referral information page.
Related reading:
General educational information only. This page is not a substitute for an eye examination or individualized medical advice. Specific referral, testing, and treatment decisions depend on clinical assessment.
Reviewed by Dr. Varun Chaudhary, vitreoretinal specialist, Retina Consultants of Hamilton.