Short Term Effect of Intravitreal Injection of Bevacizumab on Vitreous Hemorrhage Related to Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy

Abstract

Purpose: : To evaluate the short term effect of intravitreal bevacizumab(IVB) on vitreous hemorrhage(VH) related to proliferative diabetic retinopathy(PDR)

Methods: : Retrospective chart review of cases received IVB due to VH related to PDR between Nov,2006 and Sep,2008

Results: : 48 patients received intravitreal injection of bevacizumab due to vitreous hemorrhage. One month later, 40/48 had decrease in vitreous hemorrhage and improved visual acuity. Five patients had no change. Three patients became worse. For the patients who have improved in the VH, the mean time required for clear up is 57 days.Thirty-eight patients had clear up gradually and eight patient required vitrectomy subsequently. Four patient have recurrent vitreous hemorrhage during the follow up period.

Conclusions: : IVB is a relatively safe and effective procedure for the short term treament of VH related to PDR

Keywords: diabetic retinopathy • vascular endothelial growth factor • vitreous