Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO) is a commonly seen retina problem. The exact cause of this is not known. It is postulated that insites where arteries cross veins a hardened artery may press on the vein below and cause it to close. This condition is most commonly seen in people with high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular problems, or hypercoagulable condition. When the vein closes, the blood that would be returning toward the heart from the retina has no place to go. It then leaks out of the vein and causes bleeding within the retina.The bleeding and leakage from the vessels may then lead to loss of vision.
Fortunately, many cases of BRVO improve within the first few months.If they do not improve after 3 months and the vision is 20/40 or worse, laser treatment should be considered.Laser treatment will help reduce the leakage and is proven to help improve the vision.
In case where laser treatment can not be performeddue to the extent of the blood alternative treatments may be considered. These include placement of Kenalog (a steroid) within the eye or surgical seperation of the vein from the artery (Sheathotomy.)