Eye Injections of Bevacizumab for Lowering Risk of Scar Tissue in the Retina and Repeated Retinal Detachment.

A Prospective Pilot Study Evaluating the Effect of Intravitreal Injection of Bevacizumab on Recurrent Retinal Detachment Due to Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of a drug called bevacizumab (Avastin) on the rates of recurrent retinal detachment and scar tissue formation.

Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) remains the most significant obstacle to successful retinal detachment (RD) repair, accounting for up to 75% of all primary surgical failures. Characterized by the proliferation of cells on the preretinal or subretinal surface, PVR ultimately leads to contraction, foreshortening, and ultimately recurrent detachment of the retina. Several PVR risk factors have been identified, including pre-existing uveitis, large retinal tears, multiple retinal breaks, detachments involving greater than two quadrants of the retina, vitreous hemorrhage, and choroidal detachment. Given the absence of a proven medical therapy for PVR and prior studies establishing VEGF as a potential therapeutic target, further clinical evaluation is warranted. Herein, we report outcomes of a prospective, non-randomized, historical-control pilot study evaluating the effect of serial intrasilicone oil bevacizumab injections on outcomes of PVR-related RD repair.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ability to provide written informed consent and comply with study assessments for the full duration of the study
• Undergoing pars plana vitrectomy with or without scleral buckling for recurrent RD due to PVR with planned silicone oil instillation.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Prior anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections within 3 months of retinal detachment surgery.
• Traction retinal detachment due to proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
• Inability to flatten retina completely intraoperatively
• Known allergy or contraindication to intravitreal bevacizumab