Retinal vein occlusions are common retinal vascular disorders with the potential for significant vision-related morbidity. Retinal vein occlusions are classified as either branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), or hemiretinal vein occlusion (HRVO) based on the specific occlusion site. Decreased vision in patients afflicted with CRVO may result from retinal ischemia and/or the accumulation of fluid within the center of the retina (macular edema). The Central Vein Occlusion Study (CVOS) Group demonstrated that grid laser photocoagulation is not an effective treatment for decreased vision due to CRVO-related macular edema. Since publication of that report, the standard of care for patients with decreased vision due to CRVO-associated macular edema was observation. However, in the past 5 years, several major randomized controlled clinical trials have investigated new therapeutic modalities for the treatment of macular edema secondary to CRVO. This article aims to provide insight into current evidence-based approaches to the management of macular edema secondary to CRVO. A companion article reviews approaches for the management of macular edema secondary to BRVO.