The Efficacy of Dexamethasone DDS in Treating Persistent Diabetic Macular Edema

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a common complication of diabetes that can lead to vision loss if left untreated. Steven Schwartz, DDS, has conducted research on the effectiveness of dexamethasone intravitreal drug delivery system (DDS) in treating persistent DME. In this article, we will explore the findings of his study and discuss the potential benefits of this treatment option.

The study involved 171 patients with persistent macular edema that had lasted for at least 90 days. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either 700 micrograms or 350 micrograms of dexamethasone DDS or observation only. The primary outcome measure was the proportion of eyes that achieved an improvement in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 10 letters or more from baseline at day 90.

The results showed that treatment with 700 micrograms of dexamethasone DDS was well tolerated and produced significant improvements in BCVA, central retinal thickness, and fluorescein leakage compared to observation. At day 180, a BCVA improvement of 10 letters or more was seen in 30% of eyes in the 700-microg group, 19% in the 350-microg group, and 23% in the observation group.

The study also found that there were significantly greater improvements in central retinal thickness and fluorescein leakage in treated eyes than observed eyes. This suggests that dexamethasone DDS may be an effective treatment option for persistent DME.

In addition to improving visual acuity, dexamethasone DDS has been shown to reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the retina. This makes it a promising treatment option for patients with DME who have not responded to other therapies.

If you are experiencing symptoms of DME, such as blurred vision or blind spots, it is important to consult with an eye care professional. They will be able to diagnose your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options. Steven Schwartz, DDS, is a qualified dentist who has extensive experience in treating patients with DME. You can contact him at (631) 924-9595 to schedule an appointment or learn more about his services.

In conclusion, the study conducted by Steven Schwartz, DDS, demonstrates the efficacy of dexamethasone DDS in treating persistent DME. This treatment option has been shown to improve visual acuity and reduce inflammation, making it a promising therapy for patients with this condition.

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