BLong-term results of branch retinal vein occlusion: 5-year follow-up

This study aimed to report the 5-year outcomes of patients with newly diagnosed branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

A retrospective review of patient charts was conducted. Data on central macular thickness (CMT), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), photoreceptor integrity, number of intravitreal (IV) antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections administered, and treatment regimen were assessed.

Ninety-seven eyes from individual patients with a mean age of 70.90 ± 11.49 (38-92) were included. The mean BCVA improved, and the mean CMT decreased at all follow-up visits following treatment (p < 0.05). Thirty-two eyes (33%) gained 3 lines of BCVA at the five-year follow-up. The mean number of total IV anti-VEGF injections administered was 19 ± 13.35 (1-49) during the five-year period, and 27.83% of patients received rescue laser treatment. Fifty-four percent of eyes received three consecutive monthly loading doses of IV anti-VEGF injections. The mean change in BCVA in the loading dose (+) group was significantly greater than in the loading dose (-) group at 1-year and subsequent visits. The loading dose (+) group showed a significantly greater reduction in CMT compared to the loading dose (-) group. The mean estimated time for BCVA to decline by ≥3 lines was 117 ± 8.74 months (95% CI = 100.21-134.51).

Anti-VEGF treatment was effective in improving anatomical and functional outcomes in BRVO patients during long-term follow-up. Initial treatment with three loading doses of anti-VEGF resulted in greater vision gain and more pronounced anatomical improvement.