Baseline characteristics and response to treatment of participants with hemiretinal compared with branch retinal or central retinal vein occlusion in the standard care vs corticosteroid for retinal vein occlusion (SCORE) study: SCORE study report 14

Predictive Factors for Functional and Anatomical Outcomes After Anti-VEGF Treatment for Macular Edema in Patients with Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion

Purpose

This study aimed to identify predictive factors for the improvement of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and reduction of central macular thickness (CMT) after treatment of macular edema (ME) due to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) in a real-world setting.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with ME secondary to BRVO who were treated with intravitreal injection of bevacizumab as the first-line therapy and were followed up for 12 months. Demographic and clinical data, in addition to baseline spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) features, were considered as possible biomarkers of final BCVA and CMT. We also collected the data concerning the need for additional treatment including sectorial laser photocoagulation, change to another anti-VEGF agent, or intravitreal corticosteroid injection.

Results

A total of 161 eyes were analyzed. BCVA significantly improved from baseline to 12-month follow-up (0.6 and 0.4 logMAR, respectively; P < 0.01). CMT decreased significantly during the follow-up period (from 498.0 to 325.0 μ m; P < 0.01). Final BCVA correlated positively with baseline BCVA (P < 0.01, r = 0.57). Older age at diagnosis and baseline SD-OCT findings including CMT, disruption of the retinal inner layers, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) damage, and impairment of the ellipsoid zone and external limiting membrane negatively affected final BCVA (P < 0.01). Multiple regression analysis identified age and BCVA at baseline as the only independent predictors of final BCVA (P = 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively). No association was found between clinical data, SD-OCT parameters, and final CMT.

Conclusion

Various clinical and SD-OCT parameters are prognostically relevant for visual improvement in ME secondary to BRVO. Age at diagnosis and baseline BCVA were found to be independent predictors of visual outcome.

Efficacy of single-dose intravitreal dexamethasone implantation for retinal vein occlusion patients with refractory macular edema: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose: To assess the functional and anatomical consequences of single-dose dexamethasone (DEX) implants for the treatment of refractory macular edema (ME) secondary to retinal vein occlusion (RVO) after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents.

Methods: A literature search of studies on switching therapy to DEX implants from anti-VEGF agents in refractory RVO patients was performed with five electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library) prior to January 2022. The main outcomes included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT) changes at different follow-up endpoints from baseline. All analyses were performed using Stata version 15.0.

Results: The final analysis included four eligible studies with a total of 99 patients. After single-dose DEX implant application, BCVA improved significantly at 2, 3, and 6 months with an average gain of −0.23 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) (p = 0.004), −0.20 logMAR (p = 0.027), and -0.09 logMAR (p = 0.021), respectively. Mean CMT reduction was also significant from baseline to 2 months (-241.89 μm, p &lt; 0.001), 3 months (−222.61 μm, p &lt; 0.001), and 6 months (−90.49 μm, p &lt; 0.001). No serious adverse events were observed in any of the included studies.

Conclusion: This meta-analysis showed that RVO patients with refractory ME could benefit significantly from switching therapy to DEX implantation, with efficacy lasting 6 months after a single-dose application. Intravitreal DEX implantation is a safe and effective option for refractory cases.

Baseline Characteristics and Outcomes After Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Therapy for Macular Edema in Participants With Hemiretinal Vein Occlusion Compared With Participants With Central Retinal Vein Occlusion: Study of Comparative Treatments for Retinal Vein Occlusion 2 (SCORE2) Report 18

Importance

Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections are commonly used to treat eyes with macular edema secondary to hemiretinal vein occlusion (HRVO) or central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). Information on whether differences exist in outcomes after anti-VEGF therapy can help guide treatment for each of the different disease types.

Objective

To compare baseline characteristics, treatment burden, and outcomes of macular edema treatment in participants with HRVO with those of participants with CRVO.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This post hoc outcome analysis from the Study of Comparative Treatments for Retinal Vein Occlusion 2 randomized clinical trial included 362 participants with macular edema caused by HRVO or CRVO treated at 66 US sites. Randomization began in September 2014, and the last month 24 follow-up visit occurred in February 2018. Data were analyzed from April 2020 to May 2021.

Interventions

Eyes were initially randomized to 6 monthly intravitreal injections of aflibercept or bevacizumab and were treated according to protocol between months 6 to 12 depending on 6-month outcome. After month 12, patients were treated per investigator discretion and observed through month 60.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Mean visual acuity letter score (VALS).

Results

Of 362 included patients, 157 (43.4%) were female, and the mean (SD) age was 68.9 (12.0) years. Outcome data were analyzed up to month 24 owing to substantial missing data at later visits. A significantly greater proportion of participants with HRVO than those with CRVO were Black (37% vs 11%). Treatment rates between months 12 to 23 were 0.36 (95% CI, 0.32-0.40) injections per month for patients with CRVO and 0.28 (95% CI, 0.19-0.36) for patients with HRVO (P = .11). The mean VALS from months 1 to 24 of an HRVO study eye exceeded that of a CRVO study eye by 5.5 (95% CI, 1.5-9.5; P = .01), consistent with the magnitude of the VALS difference between eyes with CRVO and HRVO at baseline. Eyes with CRVO presented at baseline with more macular edema than eyes with HRVO (difference in central subfield thickness [CST], 86 μm; 95% CI, 48-124; P < .001), with no difference in CST between the groups throughout months 1 to 24.

Conclusions and Relevance

Black race was more prevalent among participants with HRVO than CRVO, and no differences were observed in the frequency of treatments for macular edema between eyes with CRVO and HRVO. Although eyes with CRVO presented with worse visual acuity and more macular edema on average than did eyes with HRVO, the magnitude of VALS improvement, central retinal thickness in response to anti-VEGF therapy, and treatment burden were similar between the groups.

Hemiretinal vein occlusion 12-month outcomes are unique with vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors: data from the Fight Retinal Blindness! Registry

Background/aims

To describe baseline characteristics and 12-month outcomes with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors of treatment-naïve hemiretinal vein occlusion (HRVO) compared with branch (BRVO) and central (CRVO) variants in routine clinical care.

Methods

A database observational study recruited 79 HRVO eyes, 590 BRVO eyes and 344 CRVO eyes that initiated therapy over 10 years. The primary outcome was mean change in visual acuity (VA—letters read on a logarithm of minimal angle of resolution chart) at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included mean change in central subfield thickness (CST), injections and visits.

Results

At baseline, mean VA in HRVO (53.8) was similar to CRVO (51.9; p=0.40) but lower than BRVO (59.4; p=0.009). HRVO eyes improved to match BRVO eyes from soon after treatment started through 12 months. Mean change in VA was greater in HRVO (+16.4) than both BRVO (+11.4; p=0.006) and CRVO (+8.5; p<0.001). Mean change in CST in HRVO (−231 µm) was similar to CRVO (−259 µm; p=0.33) but greater than BRVO eyes (−151 µm; p=0.003). The groups had similar median burdens of eight injections and nine visits.

Conclusions

HRVO generally experienced the greatest mean change in VA of the three types of RVO when treated with VEGF inhibitors, ending with similar 12-month VA and CST to BRVO despite starting closer to CRVO. Inclusion of HRVO in BRVO or CRVO cohorts of clinical trials would be expected to proportionally inflate and skew the visual and anatomic outcomes.

Photocoagulation for retinal vein occlusion

The role of photocoagulation in retinal vein occlusion (RVO) has been studied since 1974. The most serious complications of central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) and branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) are: (i) visual deterioration, most commonly due to macular edema, and (ii) the development of ocular neovascularization (NV), particularly neovascular glaucoma (NVG), with hazardous consequences for vision and even the eye itself. Before discussing the role of photocoagulation in the management of NV and macular edema in RVO, it is crucial to gain a basic scientific understanding of the following relevant issues: classification of RVO, ocular NV in RVO, and the natural history of macular edema and visual outcome of RVO. These topics are discussed. In CRVO, ocular NV is a complication of ischemic CRVO but not of nonischemic CRVO. Photocoagulation has been advocated to prevent and/or treat the development of ocular NV and NVG. Since NVG is the most dreaded, intractable and blinding complication of ischemic CRVO, the role of photocoagulation and its management are discussed. Findings of three randomized, prospective clinical trials dealing with photocoagulation in ischemic CRVO are discussed. The role of photocoagulation in the management of ocular NV and macular edema in BRVO, and three randomized, prospective clinical trials dealing with those are discussed. Recent advent of intravitreal anti-VEGF and corticosteroid therapies has drastically changed the role of photocoagulation in the management of macular edema and NV in CRVO and BRVO. This is discussed in detail.

Outcomes in Retinal Vein Occlusions Presenting with Poor Visual Acuity Treated with Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Therapy: Prognosis and Predictive Factors

PURPOSE

To present visual acuity and OCT outcomes in patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents demonstrating poor initial visual acuity. We aimed to identify relevant factors that may portend differential outcomes in this important patient population.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty-two patients with recent RVO treated with anti-VEGF therapy and demonstrating habitual corrected visual acuity of worse than 20/320 before any ocular therapy, with at least 6 months of follow-up.

METHODS

Visual acuity, spectral-domain (SD) OCT findings, injection details, and the development of neovascular sequelae or need for adjunct therapies were recorded for consecutive visits after meeting vision criteria (maximum of 16 visits). In the central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) cohort, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors predictive of outcomes, and the incidence of sequelae was studied with survival analysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Change in approximate Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letter score at 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

The CRVO patients (n = 39) gained a median of 20 letters relative to baseline at both 6 and 12 months and showed a change in central subfield thickness (CST) of -504.1 μm and -552.3 μm, respectively. Branch RVO and hemiretinal vein occlusion patients (n = 13) gained a median of +45 and +57.5 letters at 6 and 12 months, respectively, and showed reductions of 299.6 μm and 355.2 μm of CST on SD OCT. For CRVO patients, more time from symptom onset to first injection predicted less optimistic letter gains in unadjusted and adjusted models (P < 0.0001 for all measures). A delay from symptom onset to first injection of 30 days or more predicted higher incidence of both neovascular (hazard ratio, 11.036; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.807-67.393) and total (hazard ratio, 11.425, 95% CI, 1.940-67.300) events.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with RVO demonstrating poor initial visual acuity showed visual and anatomic benefit with anti-VEGF therapy, most often observed shortly after initiation of treatment. In CRVO patients, even minor delays between symptom onset and first injection led to less optimistic vision gains and were associated with higher incidence of negative sequelae.

Effect of image averaging on optical coherence tomography angiography data in eyes with branch retinal vein occlusion

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of image averaging on qualitative and quantitative assessments of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) images from eyes of patients with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

METHODS

Macular OCTA images of 33 eyes of 33 patients with BRVO were obtained using the HS100 HR-SD-OCT system (Canon, Inc.). For each eye, five OCTA cube scans were obtained with a 3 × 3 mm scan protocol, and the data were averaged and compounded into a single high image quality cube data using built-in software. Pre- and post-averaging images were compared qualitatively and quantitatively in superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP) OCTA image slabs.

RESULTS

After averaging, all OCTA images showed marked improvement in image quality with less background noise and better vessel continuity. The number of microaneurysms in both the SCP and DCP was larger in single images than in averaged images. A significant increase in the detection rate of capillary telangiectasia in the DCP was noted after image averaging. The number of eyes with disrupted foveal avascular zone (FAZ) decreased significantly after averaging (P = .0253). Five eyes (15.2%) with a disrupted FAZ on the single image showed an intact FAZ after averaging. Vessel length density (VLD) and fractal dimension (FD) significantly decreased and vessel diameter index (VDI) increased after averaging, while significant changes were not observed in vessel density (VD) in both the SCP and DCP. In the SCP, lower VD, VLD, and fractal dimension were significantly correlated with worse visual acuity.

CONCLUSIONS

OCTA averaging has a significant effect on qualitative and quantitative assessments in eyes with BRVO.

A systematic review of real-world evidence of the management of macular oedema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion

This review assessed the real-world evidence of the management of macular oedema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). A meta-analysis of 2530 eyes from 48 real-world studies of therapies for macular oedema secondary to BRVO was conducted. Baseline characteristics, visual, anatomical and safety outcomes were recorded. The weighted mean and weighted estimates from random-effects models were calculated for visual acuity (VA) and central subfield thickness (CST) changes at 6, 12 and 24 months. Primary outcome was change in VA (logMAR letters) at 12 months. Study quality was assessed using the quality appraisal checklist for case series developed by Institute of Health Economics. The mean baseline VA for the pooled data was 54.0 (51.5, 56.5) letters and the mean baseline CST was 501.3 (483.5, 519.1) µm. The random-effects estimate for mean (95% CI) change in VA was 14.6 (12.5, 16.7) letters at 12 months (n = 1727). The random-effects estimate for mean (95% CI) change in CST was -181.7 (-230.7, -132.7) µm at 12 months (n = 1325). The quality of studies varied considerably. Ocular and systemic adverse events were discussed in 79% and 42% of treatment arms respectively, with possible under-reporting. Visual and anatomical gains achieved in the real-world for anti-VEGF therapy were not as impressive as seminal RCTs, possibly due to reduced injection frequency in the real world and differences in baseline characteristics. There is an urgent need for consensus on the minimum efficacy, treatment burden and safety data to collect to strengthen the real-world evidence base.

Comparison of the efficacy and safety of drug therapies for macular edema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents and corticosteroids for the treatment of macular oedema (ME) secondary to central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO).

DESIGN

Systematic review and network meta-analysis.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients from previously reported randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing anti-VEGF and corticosteroids for the treatment of ME secondary to CRVO.

METHODS

Literature searches were conducted using PubMed, Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library and clinicaltrials.gov until March 2017. Therapeutic effects were estimated using the proportions of patients gaining/losing ≥15 letters, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT). Treatment safety was estimated using the proportions of adverse events, namely increased intraocular pressure (IOP), cataracts, vitreous haemorrhage (VH) and retinal tear. The software ADDIS (V.1.16.8) was used for analysis. Treatment effect and safety of different drugs could be ranked based on simulation.

RESULTS

Eleven RCTs comprising 2060 patients were identified. Regarding patients gaining ≥15 letters, aflibercept and ranibizumab were significantly more effective than sham/placebo at 6 months. Regarding patients losing ≥15 letters at 6 months, ranibizumab showed significant improvement compared with dexamethasone. Aflibercept, bevacizumab or ranibizumab showed greater improvements in BCVA than sham/placebo at 6 months. Intravitreal ranibizumab injection demonstrated greater CRT reduction than both sham and dexamethasone did. Dexamethasone had a higher risk of increased IOP than aflibercept and ranibizumab. Ranibizumab demonstrated a greater risk of cataracts than dexamethasone. Aflibercept and ranibizumab demonstrated low incidence of VH and retinal tear, respectively. Aflibercept had a slight advantage over ranibizumab as assessed by benefit-risk analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-VEGF agents have advantages in the treatment of ME secondary to CRVO. Aflibercept and ranibizumab showed marked BCVA improvement and CRT reduction. Aflibercept may have a slight advantage over ranibizumab. The results of this study can serve as a reference for clinicians to provide patient-tailored treatment.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42017064076.

Retinal Vein Occlusion Review

Retinal vein occlusions are a very common condition with great importance in ophthalmology clinical practice. This article reviews the salient epidemiology, risk factors, clinical features, and treatments related to retinal vein occlusions.

Factors associated with visual acuity in patients with cystoid macular oedema and Retinitis Pigmentosa

PURPOSE

Retinitis pigmentosa is the most common inherited retinal dystrophy. The factors associated with visual acuity in patients with other retinal diseases are well known, but are poorly understood in patients with retinitis pigmentosa. This knowledge is useful for prognosis and to support secondary endpoints in clinical trials.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study of consecutive patients recruited from the inherited retinal disease service from January 2012 to December 2012. Central macular thickness (CMT) was measured using spectral domain optical coherence tomography.

RESULTS

Data were available for 81 patients and 162 eyes. After multivariable analyses, older age, earlier age of onset of symptoms, and thicker CMT were associated with lower visual acuity. Gender and inheritance pattern were not associated with visual acuity. Each decade older age, younger age of onset, and thicker CMT was associated with 0.12, 0.10, and 0.11 worse logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution units of visual acuity, respectively (p < 0.05 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Age, age of onset, and CMT are associated with visual acuity and important factors to measure in studies of retinitis pigmentosa.

Effect of Bevacizumab vs Aflibercept on Visual Acuity Among Patients With Macular Edema Due to Central Retinal Vein Occlusion: The SCORE2 Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Studies have established the efficacy and safety of aflibercept for the treatment of macular edema due to central retinal vein occlusion. Bevacizumab is used off-label to treat this condition despite the absence of supporting data.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether bevacizumab is noninferior to aflibercept for the treatment of macular edema secondary to central retinal or hemiretinal vein occlusion.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

The SCORE2 randomized noninferiority clinical trial was conducted at 66 private practice or academic centers in the United States, and included 362 patients with macular edema due to central retinal or hemiretinal vein occlusion who were randomized 1:1 to receive aflibercept or bevacizumab. The first participant was randomized on September 17, 2014, and the last month 6 visit occurred on May 6, 2016. Analyses included data available as of December 30, 2016.

INTERVENTIONS

Eyes were randomized to receive intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (1.25 mg; n = 182) or aflibercept (2.0 mg; n = 180) every 4 weeks through month 6.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was mean change in visual acuity (VA) letter score (VALS) from the randomization visit to the 6-month follow-up visit, based on the best-corrected electronic Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study VALS (scores range from 0-100; higher scores indicate better VA). The noninferiority margin was 5 letters, and statistical testing for noninferiority was based on a 1-sided 97.5% confidence interval.

RESULTS

Among 362 randomized participants (mean [SD] age, 69 [12] years; 157 [43.4%] women; mean [SD] VALS at baseline, 50.3 [15.2] [approximate Snellen VA 20/100]), 348 (96.1%) completed the month 6 follow-up visit. At month 6, the mean VALS was 69.3 (a mean increase from baseline of 18.6) in the bevacizumab group and 69.3 (a mean increase from baseline of 18.9) in the aflibercept group (model-based estimate of between-group difference, -0.14; 97.5% CI, -3.07 to ∞; P = .001 for noninferiority), meeting criteria for noninferiority. Ocular adverse events in the aflibercept group included 4 participants with intraocular pressure (IOP) more than 10 mm Hg greater than baseline; ocular adverse events in the bevacizumab group included 1 participant with endophthalmitis (culture negative), 9 with IOP more than 10 mm Hg greater than baseline, 2 with IOP higher than 35 mm Hg, and 1 with angle-closure glaucoma not attributed to the study drug or procedure.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among patients with macular edema due to central retinal or hemiretinal vein occlusion, intravitreal bevacizumab was noninferior to aflibercept with respect to visual acuity after 6 months of treatment.

SCORE2 Report 2: Study Design and Baseline Characteristics

PURPOSE

To describe the design and baseline characteristics of participants in the Study of COmparative Treatments for REtinal Vein Occlusion 2 (SCORE2) and to compare with cohorts from other retinal vein occlusion trials.

DESIGN

Phase III prospective, multicenter, randomized clinical trial designed to assess whether intravitreal bevacizumab is noninferior to intravitreal aflibercept for treatment of decreased vision attributable to macular edema associated with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) or hemiretinal vein occlusion (HRVO).

PARTICIPANTS

Total of 362 participants: 307 with CRVO and 55 with HRVO.

METHODS

Demographic and study eye characteristics are summarized and compared between CRVO and HRVO study participants.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Baseline ophthalmic characteristics, including visual acuity and retinal thickness, and medical history characteristics, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and coronary artery disease.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 69 years, 76% of participants were white, and 90% were non-Hispanic. There was a racial disparity with respect to disease type, with 38% of HRVO patients being black compared with 11% of CRVO patients (P value adjusted for multiple testing = 0.0001). This is similar to findings from the previous SCORE Study. Comorbidities included hypertension (77%), diabetes mellitus (31%), and coronary artery disease (15%). At baseline, mean visual acuity letter score was 50 (20/100) (range, 19-73 [20/400 to 20/40]), mean optical coherence tomography (OCT)-measured central subfield thickness was 678 μm (range, 300-1203 μm), and mean number of months from diagnosis of macular edema to randomization was 6 (range, 0-104 months). One hundred twenty (33%) SCORE2 participants had been treated previously with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy, with these participants having baseline visual acuity letter score and OCT-measured central subfield thickness similar to those without prior anti-VEGF treatment, but longer mean duration of macular edema before randomization (18 months vs. 1 month for those without prior anti-VEGF treatment; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The SCORE2 cohort is a heterogeneous population, including both CRVO and HRVO eyes and both treatment-naïve eyes and eyes treated previously with anti-VEGF, which will allow study results to have broad applicability to CRVO and HRVO patients receiving treatment for macular edema. Similarities of the baseline characteristics of the SCORE2 population to other CRVO trial cohorts will allow meaningful comparisons of outcome results across trials.

An Endovascular Cannulation Needle with an Internal Wire for the Fragmentation of Thrombi in Retinal Vein Occlusion

Purpose

We report a newly developed device to fragment thrombi in retinal vein occlusion.

Methods

The new instrument consists of a 23-gauge (G) pipe and a 37-G needle with an internal wire. A total of 40 porcine eyes were used; 20 eyes for experiments in the branch retinal vein (BRV group) and 20 eyes for experiments in the central retinal vein (CRV group). We placed 25-G 3-port trocars, and core vitrectomy was performed. Another 23-G scleral incision was performed for insertion of the needle. The needle pierced the retinal vein at a distance of three- to four- or one-disc diameters from the optic disc (BRV or CRV group, respectively), and the internal wire was advanced toward the disc. The success rates of needle piercing and cannulation of the internal wire were recorded in each group. In the CRV group, the cannulation was deemed successful when the tip reached inside the optic disc. Real-time optical coherence tomography imaging also was performed using the Zeiss Rescan 700 device in porcine eyes. Histologic examination of the retinal vessel inserted with the internal wire was performed.

Results

The success rates of needle piercing into the BRV and CRV were 85% and 95%, respectively. The success rates of cannulation of the internal wire into the BRV and CRV were 85% and 0%, respectively. The process of cannulation was recorded successfully with the Rescan 700. Histologic examination showed no damages to the endothelial cell layer.

Conclusions

The needle and internal wire intended to be used for recanalization of BRV occlusion were successfully pierced and cannulated into the BRV.

Translational Relevance

This newly developed device could become a treatment modality for retinal vein occlusion to fragment thrombi that present treatment methods cannot reach and remove directly.

Predictive factors for recurrence of macular edema after successful intravitreal bevacizumab therapy in branch retinal vein occlusion

PURPOSE

Our aim was to investigate predictive factors associated with efficacy and recurrence after intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) therapy for macular edema (ME) in patients with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

METHODS

Fifty-two eyes of 52 patients who underwent IVB as a primary treatment against ME associated with BRVO were included retrospectively. Based on the postoperative central retinal thickness (CRT), the patients were classified into two groups: an effective group in which the CRT decreased to ≤250 µm within postoperative 3 months and an ineffective group in which the CRT remained >250 µm throughout the first 3 months. The effective group was then divided into two subgroups: a recurrent group in which ME had once resolved but recurred afterward, and a nonrecurrent group in which the resolution of ME was maintained throughout the follow-up period without additional injections. Preoperative factors such as age, gender, estimated elapsed time from disease onset to IVB, visual acuity, and CRT were compared between groups.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between effective (n = 37) and ineffective (n = 15) groups in all preoperative factors. Between recurrent (n = 26) and nonrecurrent (n = 11) groups, elapsed time was significantly different (29.7 ± 29.5 vs. 15.7 ± 8.9 weeks, respectively; P = 0.036), and there were no significant differences in the remaining factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Early IVB treatment against BRVO may suppress ME recurrence.

Drug treatment of macular oedema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion: a network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To indirectly compare aflibercept, bevacizumab, dexamethasone, ranibizumab and triamcinolone for treatment of macular oedema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion using a network meta-analysis (NMA).

DESIGN NMA DATA SOURCES

The following databases were searched from January 2005 to March 2013: MEDLINE, MEDLINE In-process, EMBASE; CDSR, DARE, HTA, NHSEED, CENTRAL; Science Citation Index and Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES

Only randomised controlled trials assessing patients with macular oedema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion were included. Studies had to report either proportions of patients gaining ≥3 lines, losing ≥3 lines, or the mean change in best corrected visual acuity. Two authors screened titles and abstracts, extracted data and undertook risk of bias assessment. Bayesian NMA was used to compare the different interventions.

RESULTS

Seven studies, assessing five drugs, were judged to be sufficiently comparable for inclusion in the NMA. For the proportions of patients gaining ≥3 lines, triamcinolone 4 mg, ranibizumab 0.5 mg, bevacizumab 1.25 mg and aflibercept 2 mg had a higher probability of being more effective than sham and dexamethasone. A smaller proportion of patients treated with triamcinolone 4 mg, ranibizumab 0.5 mg or aflibercept 2 mg lost ≥3 lines of vision compared to those treated with sham. Patients treated with triamcinolone 4 mg, ranibizumab 0.5 mg, bevacizumab 1.25 mg and aflibercept 2 mg had a higher probability of improvement in the mean best corrected visual acuity compared to those treated with sham injections.

CONCLUSIONS

We found no evidence of differences between ranibizumab, aflibercept, bevacizumab and triamcinolone for improving vision. The antivascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) are likely to be favoured because they are not associated with steroid-induced cataract formation. Aflibercept may be preferred by clinicians because it might require fewer injections.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

Not registered.

Influence of diabetes and diabetes type on anatomic and visual outcomes following central rein vein occlusion

PURPOSE

To determine the influence of diabetes and diabetes type on ocular outcomes following central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO).

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of all patients evaluated over a 4-year period in a tertiary diabetes eye care center. Ophthalmic findings were recorded including visual acuity and the presence of retinal neovascularization at presentation, after 3-6 months, and at last follow-up.

RESULTS

The records of 19,648 patients (13,571 diabetic; 6077 nondiabetic) were reviewed. The prevalence of CRVO in diabetic patients (N=72) and nondiabetic patients (N=27) were 0.5 and 0.4%, respectively. Disc neovascularization (21.3 vs 0.0%, P=0.05) and panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) (48.7 vs 21.4%, P=0.01) were more common in diabetic patients compared with nondiabetic patients. Compared with type 2 diabetic patients, retinal neovascularization (28.6 vs 3.7%, P=0.004) and subsequent PRP (78.6 vs 41.9%, P=0.01) were more likely in type 1 patients. Optic nerve head collateral vessels (CVs) were observed less than half as often (21.4 vs 56.5%, P=0.04) in patients with type 1 diabetes. Presence of optic nerve head CVs at baseline was associated with less likelihood of PRP (14.3 vs 46.1%, P=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort, the rates of CRVO in diabetic and nondiabetic patients were similar to previously published population-based studies. Following CRVO, diabetic patients had higher rates of disc neovascularization and were more likely to require subsequent PRP than nondiabetic patients. As compared with CRVO patients with type 2 diabetes, patients with type 1 diabetes and CRVO had worse anatomic outcomes with substantially increased risks of retinal neovascularization and PRP; however, final visual acuity outcomes were similar.

Treatments for macular oedema following central retinal vein occlusion: systematic review

OBJECTIVES

To review systematically the randomised controlled trial (RCT) evidence for treatment of macular oedema due to central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO).

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CDSR, DARE, HTA, NHSEED, CENTRAL and meeting abstracts (January 2005 to March 2013).

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA, PARTICIPANTS AND INTERVENTIONS

RCTs with at least 12 months of follow-up assessing pharmacological treatments for CRVO were included with no language restrictions.

STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS

2 authors screened titles and abstracts and conducted data extracted and Cochrane risk of bias assessment. Meta-analysis was not possible due to lack of comparable studies.

RESULTS

8 studies (35 articles, 1714 eyes) were included, assessing aflibercept (n=2), triamcinolone (n=2), bevacizumab (n=1), pegaptanib (n=1), dexamethasone (n=1) and ranibizumab (n=1). In general, bevacizumab, ranibizumab, aflibercept and triamcinolone resulted in clinically significant increases in the proportion of participants with an improvement in visual acuity of ≥15 letters, with 40-60% gaining ≥15 letters on active drugs, compared to 12-28% with sham. Results for pegaptanib and dexamethasone were mixed. Steroids were associated with cataract formation and increased intraocular pressure. No overall increase in adverse events was found with bevacizumab, ranibizumab, aflibercept or pegaptanib compared with control. Quality of life was poorly reported. All studies had a low or unclear risk of bias.

LIMITATIONS

All studies evaluated a relatively short primary follow-up (1 year or less). Most had an unmasked extension phase. There was no head-to-head evidence. The majority of participants included had non-ischaemic CRVO.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS OF KEY FINDINGS

Bevacizumab, ranibizumab, aflibercept and triamcinolone appear to be effective in treating macular oedema secondary to CRVO. Long-term data on effectiveness and safety are needed. Head-to-head trials and research to identify 'responders' is needed to help clinicians make the right choices for their patients. Research aimed to improve sight in people with ischaemic CRVO is required.

The ABCs of RVO: a review of retinal venous occlusion

Retinal vein occlusions are important causes of loss of vision; indeed, they are the second most common retinal vascular disease, following diabetic retinopathy. For this reason alone, primary eye-care providers must be well versed in diagnosis and management. Risk factors, though not universally agreed upon, include but are not limited to advancing age, systemic hypertension, arteriolarsclerosis, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, blood hyperviscosity, thrombophilia, ocular hypertension and glaucoma. Typically, visual loss is secondary to macular oedema and/or retinal ischaemia. Treatment modalities have included observation, systemic thrombolysis and haemodilution, radial optic neurotomy, chorioretinal anastomosis, vitrectomy, laser photocoagulation and intravitreal injection of anti-inflammatory and, most recently, anti-vascular endothelial growth factors.

Meta-analysis of the effect of intravitreal bevacizumab in branch retinal vein occlusion

BACKGROUND

To further evaluate the effect of intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) for the treatment of branch retinal vein occlusion in a meta-analysis of previous studies.

METHODS

Pertinent publications were identified through systemic searches of PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register up to July 2012. Data on central macular thickness and best-corrected visual acuity obtained at 4 and 12 weeks after treatment were extracted. Groups of patients receiving IVB were compared with control groups.

RESULTS

Four randomized controlled and 3 comparative studies were included. A publication bias was not detected by funnel plots, the Egger method, or the Begg method. Best corrected visual acuity measured at 4 and 12 weeks after baseline increased significantly in the IVB groups as compared with the control groups [4 weeks: weighted mean deviation (WMD)=-0.09; 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.12, -0.05; P<0.001; at 12 weeks: WMD=-0.21; 95% CI: -0.30, -0.12; P<0.001]. Similarly, reduction in central macular thickness at 12 weeks after baseline was significantly higher in the IVB groups than in the control groups (WMD=-29.02; 95% CI: -50.56, -7.49; P=0.008). The change in central macular thickness at 4 weeks after baseline did not vary significantly between the IVB groups and control groups (WMD=-20.48; 95% CI: -67.30, 26.34; P=0.39). All included studies taken separately reported on a significant increase in visual acuity in the IVB groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with branch retinal vein occlusion experienced a significant benefit in terms of visual improvement and reduction in central macular thickness after the intravitreal injection of bevacizumab.