Retina Surgery

Jetrea Injections

Jetrea is a drug used for the treatment of vitreomacular traction,a condition that can occur as part of aging when the vitreous gel that fills the interior of the eye pulls on the surface of the macula causing swelling which causes blurred vision, distortion, and the formation of blind spots.

When Jetrea is injected into the eye, it causes the proteins that are responsible for the traction to dissolve. This results in a gentle, pharmacological release of the vitreous gel from the macula so that the retinal layers can return to their normal position.

Before undergoing Jetrea treatment, your eye will be cleaned to prevent infection. A topical anaesthetic will used to numb the eye(s) receiving the Jetrea injection. The drug is then carefully and painlessly injected into the eye. This treatment is completed quickly and is usually finished within less than 10 minutes.

Performed on outpatient basis, patients may return home immediately after receiving Jetrea treatment.

Recovery after Jetrea Injections

The recovery time after receiving treatment with Jetrea is minimal. Majority of patients experience no pain or discomfort and can return to their daily routine the day after receiving a Jetrea injection. The eye(s) may appear bloodshot after treatment, but this is normal.

During the first week after receiving treatment, patients may notice

  • Blurred vision
  • Vision may appear to have a yellowish hue
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Redness in the treated eye(s)

However, if patients experience any of the following the following symptoms, they should contact their retinal specialist immediately:

  • Pain
  • Redness in the treated eye(s) lasting longer than 3 days
  • Running discharge of fluids or pus from the eye(s) that received treatment

The eye needs to be kept clean after receiving Jetrea treatment. Avoid touching the eye or getting any water in it for the first 2 days after receiving Jetrea injections. A prescription of antibiotic eye drops will be given for use as directed by your retinal specialist. If the eye feels dry or irritated use a fresh bottle of artificial tears to soothe and lubricate the eye.

The release of vitreomacular traction can take approximately 1 to 2 weeks after undergoing treatment with Jetrea. Your ophthalmologist will schedule a follow up appointment in order to evaluate the progress of this treatment.