Navigated Laser In Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion Study

Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) is often complicated by macular edema, possibly leading to severe visual loss or blindness. Treatment is repeated, intravitreal injections of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-inhibitors like aflibercept. The treatment is effective, but a need for repetitive injections is a concern for patients as well as society due to risk of side effects, regular hospital visits and the price of the drug. Former treatment included macular grid pattern photocoagulation, but this technology was limited by a poorer visual outcome for the patient and a higher risk of side effects, including central visual loss. A novel laser delivery system, called navigated laser photocoagulation, has proven effective, safe and precise, and has shown promising results in stabilising the effect of the VEGF-inhibitor treatment in similar diseases. Thus, in a 12-month prospective, randomized 1:1 study of 60 patients with BRVO and macular edema the investigators aim to (1) Examine the treatment response of patients treated with intravitreal aflibercept (Eylea®) and navigated retinal laser (Navilas®)(Group 1) as compared to patients treated with intravitreal aflibercept only (Group 2), and (2) Identify non-invasive retinal biomarkers (retinal oxygen saturation, macular ischemia and retinal vascular arteriolar and venular calibre) for successful treatment outcome.