Age-related macular degeneration affects the portion of the retina that impacts central vision. There are two common types of age-related macular degeneration: dry and wet. The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports that wet macular degeneration accounts for 10 percent of all age-related macular degeneration cases but is responsible for the majority of the significant vision loss associated with macular degeneration. No medical treatments are available for dry macular degeneration. However, there are several treatment options specifically for the wet form of the condition, which is considered advanced macular degeneration, according to the AAD.
Laser Treatment
As noted on the Macular Degeneration Research website, laser or photocoagulation therapy was the first type of treatment used for wet macular degeneration. In this treatment, a laser is used to seal off the new blood vessels that grow underneath the retina in the wet form of the disease. This treatment leaves a permanent blind spot in the place of the treatment. If the blood vessels grow back, the treatment can be repeated.
Photodynamic Therapy
In photodynamic therapy, the eye doctor injects a special dye called verteporfin into a vein of the patient with wet macular degeneration; the dye collects in the abnormal blood vessels in the eye. The doctor then uses a special laser to activate the verteporfin, which then destroys the blood vessels. According to the Macular Degeneration Research website, photodynamic therapy can stabilize the visual acuity but cannot improve vision.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Antagonists Medications
Vascular endothelial growth factor antagonists, which are also known as antiangiogenesis inhibitors, impact a substance in the body that assists in blood vessel growth; these medications inhibit blood vessel growth. As of 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved two drugs in this class, pegaptanib, brand name Macugen, and ranibizumab, or Lucentis. Both drugs are injected into the vitreous cavity at the rear of the eye at specific intervals. According to the "Eye Digest," Lucentis has the ability to actually improve vision in some patients receiving the injections. Another antiangiogenesis medication called bevacizumab has not been approved by the FDA for macular degeneration, but some eye doctors use the drug off-label to treat wet macular degeneration.
Macular Translocation Surgery
Macular translocation surgery is not a commonly used treatment for wet macular degeneration, according to the Mayo Clinic. In this surgery, an eye surgeon detaches the retina and rotates it so that the macula is located over more healthy tissue. The surgeon can also remove the new blood vessels or treat them with a laser at the same time.
Implantable Miniature Telescope
Approved in 2010, an implantable miniature telescope can help patients with advanced macular degeneration. The telescope is implanted into one eye, which is then used to provide central vision. After the surgery, the patient would have to undergo a visual rehabilitation program, according to the Macular Degeneration Research organization.
