Visual and Anatomic Outcomes of Cases That Have Received Dexamethasone Implant Treatment for Venous Occlusion.

Purpose: To investigate the anatomical and visual results of intravitreal dexamethasone implant treatment for macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion. Materials and Methods: The study included a total of 25 patients undergoing dexamethasone implant for macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion. Retrospective evaluation included best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) measured with ETDRS charts and macular thickness using optical coherence tomography (OCT) at each visit. The contrast sensitivity levels of patients were evaluated with Pelli-Robson chart. Results: The mean age of the patients was 59.5±13.3 years (range, 34-84years). The mean follow-up time was14.6 ± 5.5 months (range, 6-27 months) and the mean number of implants was 2.6±1.5 (range,1-6). The increase in the visual acuity according to time was statistically significant (p<0.005). The decrease in macular edema was statistically significant (p<0.005). The initial mean contrast sensitivity before implant was 0.72±0.50 log, and the final mean contrast sensitivity was 1.08±0.46 log (p<0.005). No systemic adverse events were observed in any of the cases. When the ocular adverse effects were assessed, cataract progression was seen in 54.5% and cataract operations were performed on 4 patients (18.1%). The increase in intraocular pressure was statistically significant (p<0.005) and only one patient needed medical treatment. Conclusion: Dexamethasone implant had a positive effect on anatomic and visual results in retinal vein occlusion-associated macular edema but the ideal repeat interval for intravitreal dexamethasone treatment should be shorter than 6 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]