Branch retinal vein occlusion: clinical findings, natural history, and management.

Branch retinal vein occlusion is a common retinal vascular condition characterized by sectoral intraretinal hemorrhages, retinal ischemia, retinal exudates, and macular edema. The site of occlusion usually occurs in the vicinity of arteriovenous crossing sites, and is predisposed by various systemic and local factors. Complications of branch retinal vein occlusion include macular edema, capillary nonperfusion, retinal neovascularization, vitreous hemorrhage, and tractional retinal detachments that often result in loss of vision. Until recently, laser photocoagulation was the only therapy recommended for eyes with branch retinal vein occlusion. New medical and surgical treatment options aimed at reducing macular edema have been evaluated in recent years, and include intraocular injections of steroids and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents, sustained drug release devices, vitrectomy, and sheathotomy.