Abstract
Purpose: :
To investigate the outcomes of combined treatment with Ozurdex implant and grid laser photocoagulation for macular edema (ME) in branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).
Methods: :
Every patient with BRVO and ME was offered Ozurdex injection combined with grid laser photocoagulation upon initial approval and marketing of Ozurdex as long as the extent of intraretinal hemorrhages did not interfere with the laser application. This combination treatment has been repeated on as needed basis for Ozurdex and every 3-4 months for grid laser photocoagulation. The treatment regimen was changed only for untolerated side effect or poor efficacy.
Results: :
Nine eyes were identified fulfilling this criteria. Follow up time was 8.8±5.8 (2-20) months. Initial visual acuity was 0.11±0.10 and improved to 0.16±0.16 at the final visit (p=0.176, wilcoxon). In OCT, average central foveal zone thickness was 542±160 and improved to 355±130 (p=0.05, wilcoxon). One patient had to be offered antiVEGF treatments for poor efficacy. None of the patients were switched to antiVEGF treatment due to untolerable increase in intraocular pressure or underwent cataract extraction during the follow up.
Conclusions: :
Ozurdex plus grid laser treatment seems to be an effective combination therapy for the management of ME secondary to BRVO. Comparison of this therapy to Ozurdex or anti-VEGF alone or in combination with laser may help determine the most efficacious and safe treatment for the management of ME secondary to BRVO
Keywords: vascular occlusion/vascular occlusive disease • corticosteroids • macula/fovea