RANGE OF SEVICES

 

Since a couple of years vitrectomy has been a standard treatment of retinal detachment, macular holes or proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Some research and introducing modern, less invasive methods of posterior segment of the eye treatment are conducted simultaneously with the development of microsurgery techniques. Introducing more and more complex devices and diagnostic methods in ophthalmology  enables to get to know etiologic factors and pathomechanisms of retinal or uvea diseases and allows to introduce targeted therapy. Medications given under the conjunctiva or around the eyeball do not guarantee to obtain the therapeutic concentration. Therefore, administering the medication directly to the vitreous humour seems to be the most optimal. The procedure is called intravitreal injection and it is quite safe if done in clinic. 

What intravitreal medications are administered? 

Antibiotics, anti-virus agents, antimycotics, steroids, immunosuppressive agents and anti-VEGF Lucentis are administered. They stop the creation of abnormal blood vessels in the posterior segment of the eye. 

What is the vitreous humour? 

The vitreous humour (in Latin corpus vitreum) is the clear gel that fills the space between the lens and the retina of the eyeball (about 4/5 of its volume). It is an optic environment and it participates in preserving proper intraocular pressure.

             

What complications may occur while intravitreal injection? 

While administering intravitreal medications there may occur two groups of complications.

Some minor udesired effects are the following:

-         the feeling of discomfort or gentle itching

-         blood extravasation under the conjunctiva in place of injection

-         temporary increase of intraocular pressure

-         allergic reactions to medications

Serious complications are the second group that hardly ever occur but if that happens, surgery if often inevitable. Serious complications are:

-         vitreous humour hemorrhage

-         vitreous humour detachment

-         retinal detachment

-         cataract

eyeball inflammation.