Purpose of review: New treatment modalities for branch retinal vein occlusion have recently been introduced. The role of intravitreal bevacizumab injections will be discussed and compared with laser photocoagulation and other novel intravitreal pharmacotherapies.
Recent findings: Argon laser photocoagulation is the single treatment for branch retinal vein occlusion that has been shown to reduce vision loss in a randomized controlled clinical trial. The effectiveness of this treatment is limited though. Currently, increasing data support the role of intravitreal bevacizumab as an effective treatment for patients with macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion. Multiple injections seem to be necessary in order to achieve visual stabilization, favorable and durable macular changes. The effect of a single injection seems to last 6-8 weeks. The most common treatment protocol is two to three injections over the first 5-6 months. Patients who had minimal or no response to laser therapy appeared to benefit from bevacizumab. No significant complications have been associated with its use but only short-term data are available.
Summary: Intravitreal bevacizumab appears to be a safe and effective treatment for macular edema associated with branch retinal vein occlusion, at least in the short term. Further randomized, controlled investigations are needed to assess long-term safety and efficacy of intravitreal bevacizumab.