Retinal Artery & Vein Occlusion

Retinal Vascular Disease

Retinal vascular disease refers to conditions that affect the blood vessels and circulation within the retina, often leading to significant tissue damage, secondary complications, and vision loss. The two most common retinal vascular disorders are retinal artery occlusion and retinal vein occlusion.

Retina Artery Occlusion

A retinal artery occlusion can occur in either the central retinal artery or a branch retinal artery, typically as a result of a clot or “embolus” traveling through the bloodstream. This condition is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. When an artery becomes blocked, the supply of oxygen to the retina is reduced or cut off, resulting in permanent vision loss.

Most patients who experience a retinal artery occlusion are between the ages of 50 and 80. The hallmark symptom is sudden, painless vision loss. If the central retinal artery is involved, the loss may be profound and complete. In contrast, a branch retinal artery occlusion usually causes a partial loss of the visual field. In some cases, patients may experience one or more episodes of amaurosis fugax-a temporary, transient loss of vision-prior to the permanent event.

Patients with retinal artery occlusions often have underlying systemic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart arrhythmia, or elevated cholesterol. In individuals over the age of 60, an artery occlusion may also be caused by an inflammatory condition known as giant cell arteritis, which requires urgent medical evaluation and treatment.

Retina Artery Occlusion Treatment

Retinal artery occlusion is considered an ocular emergency and is often referred to as a "stroke of the eye." Unfortunately, once the retina is deprived of oxygen for an extended period, irreversible damage may occur, and treatment options to restore lost vision are limited. While visual recovery is often not possible, the diagnosis of a retinal artery occlusion serves as a critical warning sign of underlying vascular disease. Immediate systemic evaluation is essential to reduce the risk of future complications such as stroke or heart attack. Our retina specialists work closely with your primary care physician and other members of your healthcare team to identify and manage risk factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and carotid artery disease, with the goal of protecting both your vision and overall health.

Retinal Vein Occlusion

A retinal vein occlusion can occur in either the central retinal vein or a branch retinal vein, where a blockage or pressure from a neighboring hardened artery leads to elevated venous pressure. This pressure damages the vein and results in retinal hemorrhages, swelling, and ischemia-a lack of oxygen-in the affected area of the retina. Retinal vein occlusion occurs equally in men and women, most commonly after the age of 60. It is more likely to occur in patients with diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease.

Patients typically experience a sudden onset of blurred vision or a "missing area" in their visual field when a branch retinal vein is affected. If the central retinal vein is occluded, the result is often a more severe loss of central vision.

Retinal Vein Occlusion Treatment

Retina vein occlusion may cause macular edema and consequently, decline in vision. If macular edema, most patients benefit from intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF medications such as:

  • Eylea® (Aflibercept)
  • Avastin® (Bevacizumab)
  • VABYSMO® (Faricimab)
  • Lucentis® (Ranibizumab)

Steroid implants may also be used in some cases:

  • Ozurdex® (Dexamethasone)
  • Iluvien® (Fluocinolone Acetonide)

These treatments help reduce swelling and stabilize vision.