Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration, known as AMD, is the leading cause of severe vision loss in people over 65. It is a progressive eye condition caused by damage to the macula, the small part of the eye’s retina responsible for central vision. AMD affects both distance and close vision in about 15 million people in the United States.

There are two forms of age-related macular degeneration:

Dry macular degeneration: Most people with macular degeneration have this type. It typically progresses slowly.

Wet macular degeneration: While less common, this form of AMD results from abnormal growth of blood vessels in or underneath the macula. The blood vessels break and bleed, causing significant visual impairment.

Early detection and treatment are important in managing AMD.

What to expect

At your first visit, our retina team will identify what type of AMD you have and discuss your treatment options. While there is currently no cure for AMD, there are several treatment options that can help slow down the progression of macular degeneration and improve vision.

Treatment options could include:

• Vitamins and supplements
• Pegcetacoplan (SYFOVRE) injections
• Pegol intravitreal solution (IZERVAY) injections
• Anti-VGEF drugs

For patients with significant visual impairment, we offer low vision rehabilitation to help you better navigate your world.

Why you should choose Nebraska Medicine

The Truhlsen Eye Institute is the only institute in the region with a full complement of ophthalmology subspecialists, including cornea, retina, uveitis, neuro-ophthalmology, dry eye, glaucoma, ocular oncology and ocular plastic surgery. We offer services through the Weigel Williamson Center for Visual Rehabilitation for patients with low vision due to macular degeneration.

Our partnership with the University of Nebraska Medical Center gives us access to breakthrough clinical trials and innovative treatments for patients with AMD. Nebraska Medicine retina experts engage in a variety of research projects on AMD-related topics.