What essential information should be included in informed consent for intravitreal injections?

• A. Risks, benefits, alternatives, and potential complications
• B. Only the benefits
• C. Warnings only
• D. No need to discuss risks

Answer: (D)

The essential thing being tested is that informed consent for an intravitreal injection must give a clear, balanced disclosure of what the procedure involves and what could happen as a result. It should cover the expected benefits, the potential risks and complications, and the available alternatives, along with any important details about how the procedure and follow-up will work. This is the best approach because it lets the patient weigh the potential gains against the risks and decide what fits their values and tolerance for uncertainty. For intravitreal injections, benefits might include stabilization or improvement of vision in conditions like neovascular age-related macular degeneration or diabetic macular edema. Risks and complications can include infection inside the eye (endophthalmitis), temporary or lasting changes in intraocular pressure, bleeding, cataract progression in some cases, retinal tears or detachment, and inflammation. Alternatives could involve other therapies such as different medications, laser treatment, or observation, depending on the underlying disease. The discussion should also address practical aspects like the need for multiple injections, how follow-up will be managed, and what steps to take if problems arise. Omitting any of these elements—risks, benefits, alternatives, or complications—leaves the patient inadequately informed and undermines truly voluntary consent.