Dr. David S. Boyer highlights a breakthrough in treating diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration using injections into the suprachoroidal space. This new method offers clear advantages over traditional intravitreal injections. It is less invasive, can be done in an office setting, and greatly reduces the risk of inflammation.
The study tested three dosing levels (2.5e-11, 5e-11, and 1e-12) on different groups of patients with diabetic retinopathy. The highest dose showed the most impressive results, cutting vision-threatening complications from 37% to just 4%. This marks a major improvement in patient outcomes.
“We are reaching a point where suprachoroidal injections are very helpful,” said Dr. Boyer. “They may lower the number of injections needed, and the safety profile is strong. Any inflammation was controlled with simple topical eye drops. At the highest dose, no significant inflammation occurred when drops were used. I believe we can explore even higher doses to achieve longer-lasting and better effects. The procedure is easy to perform in an office, so it deserves more study.”
Key benefits of this approach include sustained vision preservation, improvement in diabetic retinopathy severity, and less need for additional rescue treatments. Some patients improved by up to two severity steps. Importantly, the highest dose proved very safe, with topical drops effectively preventing inflammation.
The suprachoroidal space stands out as a promising alternative to more invasive methods like subretinal or intravitreal injections. It offers a safer, less complex option that can deliver lasting treatment results.
Dr. Boyer remains hopeful about future progress, noting ongoing work in two major programs—the 150 program and the Adverum program—to further enhance safety and effectiveness.
This new treatment method could transform care for retinal diseases, offering patients a safer, easier, and potentially more effective option to protect and improve their vision.
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