['To evaluate the role of initial visual acuity (VA) as a potential prognostic factor for final VA in patients with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).', 'A retrospective data analysis involving 163 patients with macular edema secondary to BRVO treated according to the recommendations of the Branch Vein Occlusion Study Group was performed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models, and receiver-operating characteristics analysis. The analyses take factors into account that can potentially influence final visual result: sex, age, type of occlusion (major temporal or macular), grid photocoagulation and ischemia.', 'The final VA ≤ 0.1 was statistically significantly related to initial VA ≤ 0.16 and age > 70 years. Sex, type of occlusion, grid photocoagulation and ischemia did not significantly influence the prediction of final VA based on age and initial VA.'] Is initial visual acuity an important prognostic factor in patients with branch retinal vein occlusion?