Macular Edema

Treatment for Macular Edema in Wilmington

Macular edema is caused by damage to retinal capillaries, which leads to leakage of blood products into the retina. Large clinical trials have shown that the application of focal laser to areas of retinal swelling can stabilize the vision and reduce the risk of vision loss by 50 percent.

The injection of steroids, such as triamcinolone, either around or into the eye has also been found to be of benefit. Side effects of steroid injections include increased eye pressure and cataract formation.

A newer class of medications target the “distress signal” sent out by a poorly nourished retina. These agents bind and block the action of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and can be directly injected into the eye. Adverse effects of injections of these agents into the eye are rare but include bleeding, infection, cataract, and retinal tear or detachment. Patients may need multiple procedures or a combination of treatments to control the leaking fluid.