[Recommendation for the implementation of intravitreal injections--statement of the German Retina Society, the German Society of Ophthalmology (DOG) and the German Professional Association of Ophthalmologists (BVA)].

The intravitreal injection as a minimally invasive intervention has proved to be an effective therapy in the management of numerous vitreoretinal diseases. However, non-standardized performance of the procedure might cause severe complications. The recommendations for intravitreal injections discussed here are intended to contribute to a minimization of the risk for complications. Of particular importance are a meticulous preoperative antisepsis with povidone iodine, a sterile environment using a sterile lid speculum, drape and gloves, the use of an adequate injection technique and the exclusion of postoperative retinal non-perfusion.