Retina
What happens during an intravitreal injection?
An intravitreal injection places a small dose of medicine into the jelly of the eye, where it acts directly on the retina. It is used for diabetic macular oedema, wet macular degeneration and vein occlusions. The eye is numbed with drops and cleaned with antiseptic, the injection takes a few seconds, and you go home the same day.
On the day
- Vision is checked and, where needed, an OCT scan is repeated
- Anaesthetic drops numb the surface of the eye
- The eyelids and eye surface are cleaned with antiseptic and a drape is used
- The injection is given through the white of the eye, away from your line of sight
- You rest briefly, then go home with instructions and a review date
Afterwards
It is normal to have a gritty or scratchy eye for a day, a small red mark where the needle passed, and a few new floaters or a dark shadow that settles. Use any drops exactly as prescribed and avoid rubbing the eye or swimming until told it is safe.
Risks to be aware of
Injections are generally safe but not risk free. Infection inside the eye is rare and serious. Raised eye pressure, bleeding on the surface, lens damage and retinal detachment are also uncommon possibilities, which your ophthalmologist will discuss with you before you consent.
Why treatment is repeated
The medicine wears off, so a course of injections is normal, often monthly at first, then at longer intervals guided by your scans. Stopping early commonly allows fluid to return, so attending your review appointments is part of the treatment.
When to seek urgent assessment
- Increasing pain, worsening redness or falling vision in the days after an injection, which needs same day assessment for possible infection
- A curtain or shadow across the vision after injection
Frequently asked questions
- Will I see the needle?
- No. The eye is held open and the injection is given from the side, outside your line of sight, and it is over in seconds.
- Can both eyes be injected on the same day?
- Sometimes, if both eyes need treatment. Your ophthalmologist will decide what is appropriate for you.
Concerned about these symptoms?
Arrange an eye examination with our consultant ophthalmologist in Garki, Abuja.
Care at Standard Eye
Related answers
- What is diabetic macular oedema?
- What is age related macular degeneration?
- What is a retinal vein occlusion?
Return to all retina answers.