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

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retina and Vitreous Surgery
• Ocular Pharmacology

Background:

• Bilateral same-day intravitreal 0.7-mg dexamethasone implant (SDIDI) injections are utilized for various ocular conditions.
• Understanding the incidence of adverse events following this procedure is crucial for patient safety and clinical decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the frequency and types of adverse events occurring within three months after bilateral same-day intravitreal dexamethasone implant injections.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 206 bilateral SDIDI injections in 59 patients was conducted.
• Data on adverse events, including ocular hypertension, cataract progression, and retinal complications, were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

• Ocular hypertension or need for IOP-lowering drops occurred in 29.4% of eyes.
• Cataract progression or extraction was noted in 27.4% of phakic eyes.
• Serious events like vitreous hemorrhage, retinal tear with detachment, and endophthalmitis were rare (≤0.5%).

Conclusions:

• Bilateral same-day intravitreal dexamethasone implant injections are associated with a low rate of serious complications.
• Clinicians should monitor for and manage increased intraocular pressure post-procedure.