Review

Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion: Classification and Treatment
Maurizio Battaglia Parodi, Francesco Bandello

Department of Ophthalmology, University of Udine, Udine, Italy

Address of Corresponding Author

Ophthalmologica 2009;223:298-305 (DOI: 10.1159/000213640)

  Key Words

• Branch retinal vein occlusion
• Laser treatment
• Corticosteroids
• Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor
• Sheathotomy
• Vitrectomy
• Combined therapy

  Abstract

Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) refers to a heterogeneous group of disorders with different clinical aspects, courses, and probably therapy. Depending on the site of the arteriovenous crossing, we can roughly divide BRVO into 3 main groups: major BRVO, hemispheric retinal vein occlusion, and macular BRVO. Main treatment options include laser treatment, corticosteroid administration, anti-VEGF drugs, and sheathotomy with or without vitrectomy. Laser photocoagulation, as demonstrated by the Branch Vein Occlusion Study, represents the gold standard for the treatment of macular edema and ocular neovascularization following BRVO. The limited functional outcomes achievable by means of laser treatment have prompted researchers to try alternative options, with varying results. The recent introduction of combined therapies for macular edema may provide a superior approach in an attempt to improve and stabilize visual acuity over a long-term follow-up.

Copyright © 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel

  Author Contacts

Prof. Francesco Bandello
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Udine
Ospedale S. Maria della Misericordia, Piazzale S. Maria della Misericordia
IT-33100 Udine (Italy)
Tel. +39 0432 559 907, Fax +39 0432 559 906, E-Mail francesco.bandello@uniud.it

  Article Information

Received: March 18, 2009
Accepted: March 26, 2009
Published online: April 16, 2009
Number of Print Pages : 8
Number of Figures : 0, Number of Tables : 0, Number of References : 112