Describing Adverse Events Associated with Bilateral Same-Day Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implants

Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2022 Nov;53(11):612-618. doi: 10.3928/23258160-20221018-04. Epub 2022 Nov 1.

Abstract

Background and objectives: To explore the incidence of adverse events after bilateral same-day intravitreal 0.7-mg dexamethasone implant (SDIDI) injections.

Materials and methods: We performed an IRB approved, single-center, retrospective review of patients receiving bilateral SDIDI injections from January 1, 2016 to October 31, 2021 and reviewed adverse events that occurred within 3 months of injection.

Results: A total of 206 bilateral (412 eyes) SDIDI injections were performed in 59 patients. Ocular hypertension or the addition of intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering drops occurred in 121 (29.4%) eyes after IDI. Two (0.5%) eyes required glaucoma drainage surgeries. Of the 117 phakic eyes, 32 (27.4%) had progression of cataract or cataract extraction. There were two (0.5%) episodes of vitreous hemorrhage and one (0.2%) retinal tear with retinal detachment. There were no cases of endophthalmitis.

Conclusion: Serious complication rates after bilateral same-day IDI injections appears low. Increased IOP that requires intervention can occur. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2022;53:612-618.].

MeSH terms

  • Dexamethasone / adverse effects
  • Drug Implants / adverse effects
  • Glaucoma* / etiology
  • Glucocorticoids / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Intraocular Pressure
  • Intravitreal Injections
  • Macular Edema* / diagnosis
  • Macular Edema* / drug therapy
  • Macular Edema* / etiology
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Visual Acuity

Substances

  • Dexamethasone
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Drug Implants