Vitrectomy, Anti-VEGF & Laser Therapy for Retinal Diseases
Your retina is essential for clear vision. When retinal diseases develop, they can lead to progressive vision loss or blindness if left untreated. Fortunately, modern retinal treatments can slow disease progression, prevent further damage, and, sometimes, restore vision. American Eye Associates is a leading retinal practice specializing in advanced treatments for retinal diseases.
Retinal Diseases We Treat
Our board-certified retina specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of retinal conditions, including:
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): A progressive disease that causes central vision loss due to macular damage
- Diabetic Retinopathy & Macular Edema: Diabetes-related damage to the retinal blood vessels, leading to vision loss and swelling in the macula
- Retinal Detachment & Tears: A medical emergency requiring immediate surgical repair to prevent blindness
- Vascular Occlusions (Retinal Vein & Artery Blockages): Blocked blood flow in the retina, causing sudden vision changes or loss
- Macular Holes & Puckers: Conditions that cause distorted or blurry central vision due to structural changes in the macula
Vitrectomy Surgery
Vitrectomy is a type of eye surgery that treats severe retinal conditions. The procedure involves removing the gel-like substance inside your eye, called the vitreous. Once the surgeon removes the vitreous, they replace it with a unique gas bubble, silicone oil, or saline solution that helps stabilize and support the retina while it heals.
Vascular Occlusion Treatment
Retinal vein and artery occlusions occur when a blockage restricts blood flow in the retina, causing swelling, bleeding, and sudden vision loss. These conditions require immediate treatment to prevent irreversible damage.
Types of Retinal Vascular Occlusions
- Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO): A blockage in the central vein of the retina, leading to severe swelling and fluid buildup
- Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO): A blockage in a smaller branch of the retinal vein, causing partial vision loss
- Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO): A sudden loss of blood flow to the retina, similar to a stroke in the eye
One of the most effective treatment options is anti-VEGF injections, which help reduce swelling, prevent abnormal blood vessel growth, and stabilize vision. In some cases, doctors use laser therapy to seal leaking blood vessels and improve retinal circulation.
For more severe cases, vitrectomy surgery may be necessary to remove blood and relieve pressure buildup inside the eye.
Anti-VEGF Injections
Anti-VEGF therapy is one of the most effective treatments for retinal conditions caused by abnormal blood vessel growth and swelling. These injections block vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein responsible for forming abnormal blood vessels in the retina.
Anti-VEGF Medications We Use
Laser Retinal Treatments
For certain retinal conditions, laser therapy provides a safe and effective treatment option to prevent further vision loss.