RETINAL VEIN OCCLUSIONS

There are two types of occlusions, Branch and Central.  As the name implies Branch Vein Occlusions only affect a section of the retina while a Central Vein Occlusion involves the entire retina.  Most of the time the vein gets occluded (like a pipe backing up) and the blood starts backing up until enough pressure builds that it "pops" open.  Hemmorhages occur within the retina but it's the edema or swelling that occurs from this traumatic event that leads to blurred vision.  The most common causes are obesity, high blood pressure, glaucoma and Diabetes.

Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO)

Most people do very well with this condition and maintain or regain good vision. Treatment of the edema can range from observation, laser or injection of steroids/Avastin/Lucentis into the eye. 

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Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO)

Visual prognosis is more uncertain in this condition.  Very few people get back their vision but with newer treatments the majority can regain significant vision.  Treatment revolves around injections of steroids (or steroid implants) or anti-VEGF agents like Avastin or Lucentis.

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