Cairns Eye Surgery specializes in the latest intravitreal treatments for Age-related Macular Degeneration (ARMD), Retinal Vein Occlusion and Diabetic Macular Oedema. We are also equipped with the latest diagnostic technology such as high resolution OCT scanning and Optos ultra wide-field angiography to promptly diagnose your condition.

We endeavour to deliver sight saving therapy utilizing Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth factor drugs and long acting steroid implants. We have many years of experience administering intraocular injections. Diagnosis to determine the need for these injections involves OCT scanning and fluorescein angiography.

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of macular degeneration with Eylea or Lucentis can be potentially sight saving. This is performed at the Cairns Eye Surgery using topical / local anaesthetic to make the procedure as pain free as possible. Generally treatments are performed monthly until the ARMD subsides (an initiation/induction phase), then treatment is extended to around 6-8 weeks. Every patient however is treated with an individualized dosing strategy as part of your treatment plan. Long-term treatment is essential to maximize visual potential and maintain your vision (a maintenance phase).

Retinal Vein occlusion is a thrombosis of the retinal vein causing loss of vision and macular oedema. Prompt treatment with Anti-VEGF therapy has replaced the previously adopted “wait and see” approach. We have noted excellent results in accordance with recent clinical trials, and often a finite endpoint to treatment. It is also important to have a GP monitoring your blood pressure which can be associated with RVO. We treat all types of RVO including central and branch retinal vein occlusions.

Diabetic maculopathy is a common cause of vision loss due to fluid retention in the macular. Recent clinical trials have proven that these cases respond well to Anti-VEGF treatments, and sometimes intraocular steroids. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy is a severe form of diabetic retinopathy requiring PRP laser surgery and/or a vitrectomy.