Intravitreal Steroid Injection
A minimally invasive procedure injecting corticosteroid medication into the vitreous cavity to treat intraocular inflammation and macular edema.
Intravitreal steroid injection delivers corticosteroids into the vitreous cavity to control intraocular inflammation and treat macular edema. Common agents include the dexamethasone sustained-release implant (Ozurdex, releasing drug over approximately 4-6 months) and triamcinolone acetonide suspension. Compared to anti-VEGF injections, steroids offer stronger anti-inflammatory action and longer duration, suitable for inflammation-driven macular edema (uveitic and RVO-associated macular edema). Main side effects are IOP elevation and accelerated cataract progression requiring close monitoring.
Quick Reference
Treatment
5 mins – 15 mins
Observation
30 mins – 1 hours
Est. Cost
¥658.41 – ¥1,755.76
Department
Ophthalmology
Who Is This For
Is Intravitreal Steroid Injection Right for You?
Good Candidates
- Uveitis-associated macular edema
- RVO-associated macular edema
- Macular edema with inadequate anti-VEGF response
- Patients unsuitable for frequent injections (anti-VEGF)
May Not Be Suitable
- History of steroid-induced glaucoma (steroid responders)
- Active ocular infection
- Aphakic or dislocated IOL eyes (Ozurdex may migrate to anterior chamber)
Step-by-Step Process
How Intravitreal Steroid Injection Works
Preoperative preparation
Povidone-iodine conjunctival disinfection, topical anesthesia.
Injection procedure
Insert needle 3.5-4mm posterior to limbus through the pars plana; inject steroid medication or sustained-release implant into the vitreous cavity.
Confirm successful injection
Indirect ophthalmoscopy to confirm correct drug/implant position in vitreous cavity.
Post-procedure care
Cotton-tip pressure on injection site, apply antibiotic eye drops, measure IOP.
Ozurdex approximately every 4-6 months; triamcinolone approximately every 2-3 months. Repeat injection timing based on OCT and symptoms.
Cost Information
Cost Estimate for Intravitreal Steroid Injection
Estimated Price Range
¥658.41 – ¥1,755.76
What's Included
Public tier-3A International Medical Department: approximately ¥4,500-7,000 per injection (Ozurdex imported sustained-release implant) or ¥1,500-3,000 per injection (triamcinolone); premium private eye centers: approximately ¥7,000-12,000 per injection (Ozurdex). Ozurdex is an imported sustained-release implant with higher cost but less frequent injection schedule.
Before Your Visit
What to Prepare
Required Tests & Examinations
If you already have recent valid test results, bring the reports. If not, these assessments can usually be completed in China before the procedure.
IOP measurement
OCT examination (assess macular edema)
Slit-lamp examination
Fundus examination
Documents & Materials to Bring
Required to Bring
Passport and valid visa
Previous IOP records
Previous treatment medication records
Companion & Support
Accompaniment needed on injection day.
After Treatment
Recovery & Follow-Up
Avoid rubbing eyes on injection day
Brief floater sensation after injection is possible
Close IOP monitoring essential (steroids can elevate IOP)
Seek immediate care for eye pain or sudden vision loss (rule out infection)
Patients with existing cataracts should be aware steroids may accelerate progression
Follow-Up Schedule
Follow-up at day 1, week 1, month 1 post-injection, then monthly IOP and OCT monitoring.
Related Conditions
Conditions This Procedure Treats
Ready to Plan Intravitreal Steroid Injection in China?
Let Carevia help you find the right hospital, coordinate your treatment, and arrange every detail of your medical trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need personalized guidance?
Our care coordinators can help you assess whether this procedure fits your situation.
Contact Us