DR. ISHA ACHARYA

DR. RAMESH VENKATESH

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate efficacy with Intravitreal (IV) anti-VEGF injections for treatment naïve PDR. To look at factors that resist patients from accepting this option.

Methods: PDR cases counseled & treated with IV anti-VEGF agents. Variation in VA, DME & VH, need for PPV, NVE regression & recurrence were main outcomes measured to evaluate efficacy at 6 months visits.

Results: Treatment acceptance with IV anti-VEGFs alone was 73% (88/120). Visit compliance (22/32), treatment cost (30/32) & increased visits (10/32) were reasons for patients denying intravitreal injections. VA change at 6 months was +2.3 ETDRS letters. DME (n=2), VH (n=1) and NVE recurrence (n=3) was noted. No cases required PPV.

Conclusion: Severe vision loss or serious PDR complications were uncommon with IV anti-VEGF injections. Patient factors such as anticipated visit compliance, cost, and frequency of visits should be considered when choosing treatment for PDR eyes. AntiVEGF therapy is a viable option for PDR eyes.