Darby, I'm very interested in your schedule of injections - something I've consulted three retinologists about. Also done lots of research about (reviewing many clinical trials comparing the effectiveness of frequency of injections and with what injection chemicals).

I've been told by all three, that yes (wonderfully), current research demonstrates that the injections are indubitably helpful in halting loss of vision and possibly even somewhat improving acuity. (That's by drying up and preventing the further growth of abnormal capillaries whose leakage causes the death of retinal cells by irreversible scarring).

They also agree, however, if the leakage is not ongoing, there is no utility in continuing injections. If it resumes (becomes "wet" again, to any degree), then yes, it's useful - indeed vital - to return to injections until the capillaries dry up again.

Do I understand you continued to receive eye injections (of the anti-VEGF chemicals) to prevent regrowth of the abnormal capillaries, even while they were not ACTIVELY leaking the combination of blood and toxic fluids?

Where did you receive your injections and have you ever asked your physician the basis of his/her injection protocol? Is it their intention to continue injections indefinitely and if so, at what intervals? Have they been using the same anti-VEGF chemical the whole time, and if so, which? (If not, what combination of chemicals?)

I'd really like to know about this as I've done a huge amount of study and had consults about precisely this question.

I've received three injections of Lucentis at one month intervals (right eye only) which discontinued the leakage and stabilized . Since then, I've received no more injections, nor does he intend to resume any unless leakage becomes active again. (I'm to carefully check my vision - daily - for any changes by using a diagram called an AMSLER grid. If there's any deterioration, I'm to see him immediately for him to evaluate my eyes for a possible return of the toxic fluids into - and/or beneath - my retina.)

That WOULD call for repeat injections . That is, "wet" macular degeneration. (The wet or most advanced stage of macular degeneration, is the only kind amenable to successful injection treatment.)

A top retinologist in PA , one at John Hopkin's and another highly respected retinologist-researcher at a teaching hospital (I found her from intensive online research), all agreed about this approach.

Otherwise stated, they say, there is NO utility in injecting eyes prophylactically (one or both, as affected). If the "wet" condition remains stable (dry) - if there's no repeat leaking/fluid beneath the retina - no injections. They call this the "treat and extend" approach, the goal being to avoid unnecessary injections which among other drawbacks, runs the risk of causing infection capable of permanently destroying vision in that whole eye.

Please compare your doctor's approach and if possible, who and where they practice? (In a PM if preferred, for privacy)

Thank you!

PS I'd also much appreciate input about the same question from any of you receiving anti-VEGF injections for wet macular degeneration.