One Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant versus Single or Multiple Intravitreal Triamcinolone Acetonide Injections for Macular Edema due to Central Retinal Vein Occlusion: Efficacy and Safety

Purpose The study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of single or multiple intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (ITA) injections compared to a single intravitreal dexamethasone implant (IDI) for the treatment of macular edema associated with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). Methods Between January 2016 and January 2023, a retrospective study was performed on a total of 60 consecutive eyes, with 30 eyes receiving ITA and the other 30 receiving IDI. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), intraocular pressure (IOP), and cataract progression were assessed over a follow-up period of 6 months. Results Both ITA and IDI groups showed initial improvements in BCVA and CRT at one month, with no significant difference between the groups. However, at six months, there were no notable disparities in BCVA, CRT, IOP increase, or cataract progression between the two treatments. In the ITA group, BCVA improved from baseline to one month and remained stable until six months. The IDI group showed initial improvement but did not display further significant progress at the six-month mark. No statistically significant difference was found between the groups. Retinal thickness decreased significantly in both groups from baseline to one month and continued to improve until six months, with no significant difference between ITA and IDI. Regarding complications, both groups had similar occurrences of transient IOP increases (40% in each group) and cataract progression (40% in ITA, 20% in IDI). Conclusion At the final follow-up, no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in BCVA, CRT, IOP increase, or cataract progression. Despite the cost difference between the two injections, both treatments can be used with similar efficacy and safety profiles.