Retinal Vein Occlusion Treatment
Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a common retinal condition that can lead to sudden or gradual vision loss. Understanding the treatment of retinal vein occlusion is essential to prevent complications and preserve vision.
What is Retinal Vein Occlusion?
Retinal vein occlusion occurs when a vein in the retina becomes blocked, disrupting normal blood flow. This can lead to:
- Swelling of the retina (macular oedema)
- Bleeding inside the eye
- Reduced oxygen supply
There are two main types:
- Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) – affects the main retinal vein
- Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO) – affects smaller branches
When is Treatment Needed?
Not all cases require immediate intervention. However, retinal vein occlusion treatment is recommended when:
- Vision is significantly affected
- Macular oedema develops
- There is a risk of complications such as neovascularisation
Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
Main Retinal Vein Occlusion Treatment Options
Anti-VEGF Injections
Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections are the first-line treatment for most patients.
They work by:
- Reducing fluid leakage
- Decreasing retinal swelling
- Improving vision
Common medications include:
- Ranibizumab
- Aflibercept
- Faricimab
These injections are typically given monthly at first, then reduced based on response.
Steroid Injections or Implants
Steroids are used when:
- Anti-VEGF treatment is not effective
- Longer-lasting treatment is required
They help by:
- Reducing inflammation
- Controlling macular oedema
Examples:
- Dexamethasone implant
Laser Treatment
Laser therapy is less commonly used today but may still be recommended in certain cases, particularly:
- Branch retinal vein occlusion
- Areas of poor blood supply (ischaemia)
Laser treatment helps:
- Reduce complications
- Prevent abnormal blood vessel growth
Monitoring and Observation
In mild cases, especially where vision is not significantly affected:
- Regular monitoring may be advised
- Some patients improve without intervention
However, close follow-up is essential.
Treatment of Retinal Vein Occlusion by Type
- Anti-VEGF injections of Eylea (Aflibercept)
- Anti-VEGF injections of Lucentis (Ranibizumab)
- Intravitreal Dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex 700mcg)
Advanced Retinal Vein Occlusion Treatment Options
CRVO Treatment
- Primarily anti-VEGF injections
- Steroids in selected cases
- Monitoring for complications
BRVO Treatment
- Anti-VEGF injections
- Laser treatment (more commonly than CRVO)
- Observation in mild cases
What to Expect from Treatment
Outcomes vary depending on:
- Type of RVO
- Severity at diagnosis
- Speed of treatment
Most patients experience:
- Stabilisation of vision
- Partial improvement in vision
- Reduced swelling in the retina
Early treatment offers the best chance of visual recovery.
Risks if Left Untreated
Without appropriate retinal vein occlusion treatment, complications may include:
- Permanent vision loss
- Macular oedema
- Neovascular glaucoma
- Retinal damage
How Quickly Should You Seek Treatment?
You should seek urgent assessment if you experience:
- Sudden blurred or distorted vision
- Loss of central vision
- Dark spots or floaters
Prompt diagnosis ensures timely treatment and better outcomes.
Why Choose Specialist Care?
Management of retinal vein occlusion requires:
- Specialist retinal imaging (OCT scans)
- Accurate diagnosis
- Individualised treatment planning
Seeing an experienced retinal specialist ensures access to the most effective therapies.
What our patients say
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FAQs on Retinal Vein Occlusion Treatment
There is no complete cure, but treatment can effectively control the condition and improve vision.
Treatment may be required for several months or longer, depending on response.
Anti-VEGF injections and Dexamethasone implants are the most effective retinal vein occlusion treatments, helping to reduce swelling, improve clarity, and prevent further deterioration.
Many patients see improvement within weeks of starting treatment for retinal vein occlusion, although ongoing monitoring and repeated therapy may be needed depending on the condition.
No. Numbing drops are used before injections or implant procedures, ensuring that treatments are comfortable with minimal discomfort.
While it cannot always be fully reversed, timely treatment of retinal vein occlusion can stabilise the condition, improve vision, and significantly reduce the risk of long-term vision loss.
Our Price List
| New consultation | £280 |
| Follow up | £220 |
| Full panretinal laser photocoagulation (PRP) x 3 sessions | £1200 |
| Fill-in panretinal laser photocoagulation (PRP) x 1 session | £450 |
| Avastin eye injection | £750 |
| Triamcinolone or Intracinol eye injections | £750 |
| Lucentis eye injection | £1,700 |
| Eylea eye injection | £1,800 |
| Vabysmo eye injection | £1,950 |
| Ozurdex eye injection | £2,800 |