At the South Carolina Retina Institute (SCRI), we prioritize personalized care and stay at the forefront of medical advancements to offer our patients the best solutions for vision disorders. Dr. Nicolas Marchese and Dr. Jorge Jiménez, our experienced Vitreoretinal Surgeons, lead our committed team in Conway and Murrells Inlet, extending our services throughout Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand. In our pursuit of excellence, we are thrilled to introduce VABYSMO®, the latest breakthrough in the treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema (DME).
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a complication of diabetic retinopathy, which is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to high blood sugar levels. In DME, fluid accumulates in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. This swelling or edema can cause vision loss, blurriness, or distortion in the central visual field.
DME occurs when the damaged blood vessels in the retina leak fluid, proteins, and other substances into the macula, causing it to swell. The swollen macula can interfere with the normal functioning of the photoreceptor cells, which can lead to vision loss or distortion.
Understanding VABYSMO® as a Treatment Approach for DME
VABYSMO® (faricimab-svoa) is a cutting-edge dual-pathway treatment, uniquely designed to address Neovascular (Wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration (nAMD), Diabetic Macular Edema (DME), and Macular Edema following Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO). Developed as an Anti-VEGF Treatment, VABYSMO® is a groundbreaking anti-angiopoietin-2 and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) bispecific antibody.
In the case of Diabetic Macular Edema, VABYSMO® is administered per FDA labeling, initially injected every 4 weeks for the first 4 doses. Subsequently, a personalized treatment interval, similar to treat-and-extend, may be implemented. Regular assessments, guided by optical coherence tomography, allow adjustments to the dosing interval based on the response to macular edema. While the efficacy of monthly dosing compared to every 8 weeks may vary, some patients may benefit from continued monthly dosing after the initial 4 doses, highlighting the importance of regular evaluations.
Anti-VEGF Therapy: A Gateway to Vision Stability
Anti-VEGF medications, such as VABYSMO®, have revolutionized the treatment of various eye conditions like Wet Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, and Retinal Vein Occlusions. By blocking the action of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), these medications effectively reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage, stabilizing vision and preventing further loss.
Therapeutic Administration for Optimal Comfort
At South Carolina Retina Institute, we prioritize your comfort during treatment. Our retina specialists employ a gentle cleansing process, apply a specialized numbing agent, and use an ultra-thin needle for swift, precise medication administration. The procedure takes seconds, minimizing discomfort and facilitating reduced recovery time.
Our knowledgeable staff collaborates with patients to create personalized plans that include anti-VEGF treatments and other necessary interventions. The goal is to empower individuals to take proactive steps toward preserving their eyesight and enhancing independence levels despite vision conditions.
At SCRI, our commitment to excellence and patient-centric care is evident in our adoption of revolutionary treatments like VABYSMO® for Diabetic Macular Edema. We invite you to explore the possibilities of preserving and improving your vision with our dedicated team of experts. Your journey to optimal eye health begins with us at the South Carolina Retina Institute.
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