Abstract

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate efficacy and safety of intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin) in eyes with macular edema secondary to central (CRVO) or branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

Methods: Twenty-eight consecutive patients (28 patients, 29 eyes, 8 CRVO, 21 BRVO) were enrolled in the study. Three intravitreal injections of 1 mg bevacizumab (0.04 ml) were administered at 4 week intervals; further retreatment was based on optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings. Follow-up examinations were done at days 1, 7 and 28, and at monthly intervals thereafter.

Results: Baseline mean central retinal thickness (CRT) in OCT was 558 µm (range 353 to 928 µm) and mean BCVA was 20/100. One day after the first injection, CRT significantly decreased to 401 µm (p < 0.01). Three injections reduced macular edema to 328 µm CRT (p < 0.01) and improved BCVA to 20/50 (p < 0.01). At 6 month CRT was 382 µm (p < 0.01), and BCVA was stable at 20/50 -2 (p < 0.01), FA showed no evidence of increased avascular zones.

Conclusion: Intravitreal injections of bevacizumab appear to be a safe and effective therapy in the treatment of macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion.