RVO treatment usually focuses on the effects of the blockage rather than on directly reopening the blocked vein. Medication injected into the eye, called an intravitreal injection, is commonly used when macular edema is present, and in selected cases intravitreal steroid treatment or laser treatment may also be considered. Because RVO is often linked to vascular risk factors, managing overall health remains important.
RVO treatment focuses on complications
RVO treatment usually focuses on the effects of the blockage rather than on directly reopening the blocked vein.
Common RVO treatment options
Medication injected into the eye, called an intravitreal injection, is commonly used when macular edema is present. In selected cases, the following may also be considered, especially if abnormal new blood vessels develop:
- intravitreal steroid treatment
- laser treatment
Read more: Can vision recover after retinal vein occlusion?
Why overall health still matters in RVO
Because RVO is often associated with vascular risk factors, management of blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, glaucoma, and related health issues also remains important.
Key takeaway
RVO is treated by addressing complications such as macular edema and abnormal new blood vessels, while also paying attention to the broader vascular risk picture.
Frequently asked questions
How is retinal vein occlusion treated?
RVO treatment usually focuses on the effects of the blockage rather than on directly reopening the blocked vein, and medication injected into the eye (an intravitreal injection) is commonly used when macular edema is present.
What are the treatment options for RVO?
Intravitreal injection is commonly used when macular edema is present. In selected cases, intravitreal steroid treatment or laser treatment may also be considered, especially if abnormal new blood vessels develop.
Can RVO treatment reopen the blocked vein?
RVO treatment usually focuses on the effects of the blockage, such as macular edema and abnormal new blood vessels, rather than on directly reopening the blocked vein.
Why does overall health matter when treating RVO?
Because RVO is often associated with vascular risk factors, management of blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, glaucoma, and related health issues also remains important.
Retina care and referrals in Hamilton
Retina Consultants of Hamilton provides educational information on retinal conditions, and Precision Retina Care accepts patient referrals from optometrists and referring physicians in the Hamilton area. Learn more about how RVO 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.