Clinical Research Directory

Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) Follow-Up

This study is a 5-year extension of the AREDS protocol, in which investigators followed the natural course of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. Participants in the former AREDS protocol are eligible for this study. Participants have a complete eye examination once a year and are contacted at least once a year between visits to check on their status. The eye examination includes measurement of visual acuity (vision chart test) and examination of the inside of the eye after the pupils have been dilated with eye drops. Photographs of the inside of the eye may be taken using a special camera that flashes a bright light in the eye. A blood sample may be obtained to test for cholesterol level and genes related to inflammation....

Functional IOL Implantation in Patients With Epiretinal Membrane

We have designed this prospective study to evaluate macular involvement and epiretinal membrane (ERM) grading by OCT in eyes with ERM and to compare clinical outcomes after implantation of Enhance IOL with standard monofocal IOL in eyes with ERM grading preoperatively, aiming to find out whether functional IOL is benefit for patients with ERM.

Intranasal Dexmedetomidine on Blood Pressure in Elderly Hypertensive Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery in elderly patients with controlled hypertension carries a risk of hemodynamic instability, particularly fluctuations in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP). Dexmedetomidine, a selective α2-adrenergic agonist, offers hemodynamic stabilization and sedation when administered intranasally and provides a simple and non-invasive premedication option. This study evaluates the effects of intranasal dexmedetomidine on perioperative mean arterial blood pressure in patients undergoing cataract surgeries. Research Question: Does intranasal dexmedetomidine premedication control blood pressure in elderly hypertensive patients undergoing cataract surgery? Research Hypothesis: Intranasal dexmedetomidine significantly reduces MAP and improves secondary outcomes compared to placebo. Primary Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of intranasal Dexmedetomidine as a premedication to control hypertension in elderly patients scheduled for cataract surgery. Secondary Objectives: 1. To assess surgery cancellation rates. 2. To evaluate satisfaction levels among patients, anesthesiologists, and surgeons using the Modified Observer's assessment of alertness/sedation scale (MOAA/S). 3- To evaluate the effect of intranasal dexmedetomidine on HR multiple readings starting from preoperative hold area till 2 hours postoperatively. This randomized, double-blinded clinical trial will include 126 elderly hypertensive patients (≥65 years) undergoing cataract surgery under local anesthesia. Inclusion Criteria will consist of patients aged ≥65 years, ASA II or III, stage 2 hypertension as per ACC / AHA guidelines (SBP\>140 and DBP\> 90 mmHg), undergoing elective cataract surgery under local anesthesia. Exclusion Criteria will include allergy or contraindication to dexmedetomidine, significant baseline bradycardia (\<50 bpm) or arrhythmia, use of sedative or anxiolytic medications, history of severe hepatic, renal, or cerebrovascular disease. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either intranasal dexmedetomidine (1 mcg/kg ideal body weight) or a placebo (normal saline) 30 minutes before surgery. MAP, HR, and SpO₂ will be recorded at multiple perioperative intervals, and surgical cancellation rates, satisfaction levels will be noted, surgical duration, and hospital stay will be documented.

Artificial Intelligence-assisted Diagnosis in Ophthalmology

This is a retrospective, multicenter, observational study designed to develop and validate an artificial intelligence (AI) system capable of detecting and classifying major ophthalmic diseases (glaucoma, cataract, diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal pathologies) in the Costa Rican population. The study will use approximately 15,000 existing medical images from digital archives of two ophthalmic centers in Costa Rica, without active participant recruitment or capture of new images. The primary motivation is that AI systems developed in other countries (primarily Asian, European, or North American populations) do not necessarily perform with the same accuracy when applied to Latin American populations. This study seeks to establish a precedent for the importance of locally validating any medical AI technology before clinical implementation.

Evaluation of Head-Mounted Spatial Computing and Three-Dimensional (3D) Visualization in Ocular Microsurgery: A Safety and Workflow Study

The purpose of this research is to evaluate the use of the research study device, the Apple Vision Pro head-mounted spatial computing display, with the Zeiss Artevo 850 digital microscope system, for the visualization during cataract and anterior segment surgery. Specifically, researchers will assess how the study device affects surgical staff experience and workflow and monitor for patient safety and intraoperative complications associated with the use of the device.

Toric Performance And Constant Evaluation

The main purpose of this investigation is to support safety and performance assessment of the investigational device with a focus on optimizing the IOL constants based on refractive outcomes.

ORYOM Robotic Surgical System in Cataract Surgery

This is a prospective, open-label clinical study designed to evaluate the performance and safety of the ORYOM Robotic Surgical System during cataract surgery.

Aqueous Humor and Ocular Tissue Analysis in Glaucoma and Cataract

This observational study will compare proteomic and elemental profiles of aqueous humor and ocular tissues in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and cataract versus cataract controls without glaucoma. Samples collected during standard surgery will be analyzed using LC-MS/MS and ICP-MS. The goal is to identify glaucoma-associated molecular patterns with potential diagnostic or prognostic relevance.

Postoperative Rotational Dynamics of Three Toric Intraocular Lens Designs

This prospective comparative cohort study evaluates and compares postoperative rotational stability and time-course dynamics of three commercially available toric intraocular lenses (TECNIS Toric II \[ZCU\], AcrySof IQ Toric, and AT TORBI 709M) after phacoemulsification cataract surgery. Rotation is quantified by registering postoperative retroillumination photographs to the end-of-surgery baseline using iris/scleral landmarks, with follow-up at postoperative day 1, day 3, week 1, week 2, month 1, and month 3. Associations between rotational outcomes and ocular biometric parameters are analyzed using linear mixed-effects models to inform individualized IOL selection and perioperative management.

Partial Range Of Field IOLs in DMEK-Enabled Procedures

Study Overview This study aims to evaluate the visual outcomes, quality of vision, and patient satisfaction after receiving an extended range PRoF intraocular lens (IOL) during triple Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) surgery. This surgery is typically performed to treat patients with both corneal endothelial dysfunction and cataracts. By testing a newer IOL, the PureSee™ extended PRoF IOL, this study hopes to improve the way ophthalmologists plan surgeries and select IOLs for these patients, ultimately helping surgeons optimize the results and expand the options available for people undergoing this procedure. Purpose of the Study The goal of this study is to evaluate how well the PureSee™ IOL works in terms of intermediate visual acuity (how well participants can see things at an arm's length). The investigators will also measure the quality of vision, satisfaction, and whether participants need glasses after surgery. The investigators have set the following goals for this study: Primary Goal: To measure how well patients can see intermediate distances (uncorrected intermediate visual acuity, or UIVA) after receiving the PureSee™ IOL during triple DMEK surgery. Secondary Goals: To understand how independent patients are from glasses after surgery. To measure patients' uncorrected and best-corrected visual acuity (sharpness of vision) at distance, intermediate, and near vision after surgery. To evaluate the uncorrected defocus curve (how the vision of participants changes when focusing at different distances). To measure contrast sensitivity (how well participants can see in low-light conditions or with subtle contrasts). Who Can Join This Study? To participate in this study, participants need to: Be undergoing triple DMEK surgery for endothelial dysfunction and cataract at the time of enrollment. Be eligible to receive an extended range of vision IOL as part of the procedure. This study is looking for patients who are interested in understanding how new IOL technology might improve their postoperative vision quality and reduce their dependence on glasses. What Will Happen During the Study? Participants will have their visual outcomes and satisfaction measured at specific times following surgery. This includes: Testing uncorrected and best-corrected visual acuity at several distances (distance, intermediate, and near). Completing a survey about how satisfied they are with their vision and how often they need glasses or contact lenses. Undergoing testing to measure contrast sensitivity (how well participants can see in low-light conditions). Why Is This Study Important? The results of this study will help doctors make better decisions about which IOLs to use during triple DMEK surgery. By evaluating the PureSee™ extended PRoF IOL, the investigators hope to expand options for patients and potentially improve visual outcomes and postoperative satisfaction. Ultimately, this study could help improve the quality of life for patients who have both cataracts and endothelial dysfunction. Study Duration Participants can expect to undergo their last assessment 6 months post-surgery to track their progress.

Pseudophakic Eyes With Presbyopia-correcting IOLs: OCT Biometry and Pyramid Aberrometry

To correlate ocular morphology from anterior segment OCT and pyramid wavefront sensing in order to comprehensively analyze pseudophakic in vivo image quality of presbyopia-correcting IOLs in cataract patients.

Comparison of Visual Outcomes and Patient Satisfaction in Mild to Moderate Glaucoma Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery With EDOF Versus Monofocal IOLs

Cataract is the leading cause of reversible vision loss, while glaucoma remains the primary cause of irreversible blindness, often impairing contrast sensitivity (CS), glare tolerance, and dark adaptation. These visual challenges are particularly relevant when selecting intraocular lenses (IOLs) for glaucoma patients undergoing cataract surgery. Monofocal IOLs are the safest and most commonly used option for glaucoma patients due to their optical simplicity and low incidence of photic phenomena, though they do not provide spectacle independence for near or intermediate vision. Multifocal IOLs (MFIOLs), while offering greater spectacle independence, are relatively contraindicated in glaucoma due to increased visual disturbances like glare and halos. Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs offer an intermediate solution, using advanced optics to provide a continuous range of vision and fewer photic disturbances than MFIOLs. EDOF lenses have demonstrated good uncorrected distance and intermediate visual acuity in patients with mild to moderate glaucoma, with promising CS outcomes and high patient satisfaction. However, findings on CS performance remain inconsistent across studies. Given these considerations, this study seeks to determine whether EDOF IOLs can be a viable alternative to monofocal lenses in glaucoma patients, potentially expanding their options for spectacle independence without compromising visual quality. The trial, conducted at OMIQ (Barcelona), will directly compare an EDOF IOL and a monofocal IOL made from the same material to assess their effects on visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and photic phenomena in this specific patient population.

Capella Scientia Development Study

This study involves collecting biometry and aberration data using the next generation biometer, Unity DX.

To Study Ocular Outflow Dynamics of the Eye Using Intraoperative Tonographic Biometry and Assess Its Predictive Value in Improving Postoperative Outcomes.

The objective of this study is to evaluate ocular outflow dynamics of the eye using intraoperative tonographic biometry and assess its predictive value in improving postoperative outcomes.

Brillouin Scanning in Cataractous Eyes

To provide first results for biomechanical properties of cataractous lenses via Brillouin microscopy and correlations between LOCS III grading, cataractous lens scans from optical coherence tomography (OCT), and intraoperative phacoemulsification energy.

Surgical Procedure Efficiency Evaluation stuDy

The purpose of this real-world evidence study is to compare surgical procedure times for UNITY® VCS and CONSTELLATION® Vision System.

Comparison of Early Postoperative Visual Acuity Between Intracapsular and Supracapsular Phacoemulsification: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide, and phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens implantation has become the most mainstream surgical approach. With advancements in surgical techniques and equipment, this procedure has evolved from a simple vision-restoring surgery into the era of refractive surgery. Patients now have higher expectations for postoperative visual quality, particularly the recovery of early vision, which directly impacts their satisfaction. Intraoperative surgical details have a direct influence on postoperative visual acuity. Thanks to intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT) technology, surgeons have gradually recognized that factors such as surgical incisions and intraoperative anterior chamber collapse can affect the survival of corneal endothelial cells after surgery, which is directly related to early postoperative vision and patient satisfaction. Swept-source intraoperative OCT (SS-iOCT) has further improved imaging range and clarity, helping us discover that the depth of intraoperative ultrasound energy use (such as cumulative dissipated energy) correlates with postoperative corneal endothelial cell loss. This suggests that compared to performing phacoemulsification at the capsular opening plane or in the anterior chamber, intracapsular phacoemulsification may reduce postoperative corneal endothelial cell loss, potentially leading to better early postoperative vision, which is crucial for patient satisfaction. However, evidence is still lacking. Therefore, this study aims to compare the effects of intracapsular versus extracapsular phacoemulsification on early postoperative vision, as well as long-term visual acuity, corneal endothelial cells, corneal changes, and the incidence of intraoperative and postoperative complications.

Clinical Study of a Fluid Accommodating Intraocular Lens (IOL) Design

The purpose of this clinical study is to evaluate the surgical, refractive, and visual outcomes with implantation of an investigational intraocular lens (IOL).

Rebamipide Versus Diquafosol for Perioperative Dry Eye in Cataract Surgery

This clinical trial is designed to compare two commonly used eye drop treatments for dry eye disease in patients undergoing cataract surgery. Dry eye disease is common in people who need cataract surgery and may worsen before or after surgery, causing eye discomfort, blurred vision, and unstable vision. Proper management of dry eye before and after surgery may help improve eye comfort and the accuracy of vision outcomes. In this study, patients with mild to moderate dry eye disease who are scheduled for cataract surgery will be randomly assigned to receive one of two treatments: Rebamipide eye drops, or Diquafosol eye drops Participants will begin using the assigned eye drops one month before cataract surgery and continue treatment for three months after surgery. The eye drops will be used only in the eye undergoing surgery. Researchers will examine whether one treatment is as effective as the other in improving tear film stability and reducing dry eye symptoms around the time of cataract surgery. Eye examinations and questionnaires will be performed before surgery, on the day of surgery, and during follow-up visits after surgery. The information gained from this study may help doctors choose the most appropriate treatment for managing dry eye disease in patients undergoing cataract surgery.

Efficacy and Safety of Tran Cannula in Combined Pseudoexfoliative Glaucoma and Cataract Surgery Compared With Augmented Ocular Irrigation

Pseudoexfoliative glaucoma is a glaucoma secondary to pseudoexfoliative syndrome; cataract surgery is often more difficult, with more complications. Tran's cannula is a single-use irrigation system designed for cleaning, with the pseudoexfoliative material remaining in the trabecular meshwork. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of the Tran cannula, in comparison with increased irrigation, in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with pseudoexfoliative glaucoma and treated for glaucoma, and with an indication for isolated cataract surgery.

Assessment of Visual Function and Optics in Intraocular Lenses

The main objective of this research is to assess visual function and optical performance of CE marked, implanted intraocular lenses to understand the individual factors that affect their performance and how these may be improved in future designs and to evaluate measurement techniques. All outcome measures will be captured 3-6 months after surgery

Vivinex Impress XY1-EM vs RayOne EMV

Comparison of the outcomes of bilateral implantation of extended depth of vision (EDOF) intraocular lenses (IOLs): the Rayone EMV and the Vivinex Impress XY1-EM in patients with cataract

Clinical Outcomes of Sedation in Cataract Surgery Performed Under Topical Anesthesia

This study aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes of different sedation strategies in patients undergoing cataract surgery performed under topical anesthesia. Cataract surgery is commonly performed under topical anesthesia; however, some patients may experience anxiety, discomfort, or inadequate cooperation during the procedure. Sedation may improve patient comfort and surgical conditions, but it may also be associated with potential adverse effects. In this randomized, prospective study, patients will be assigned to one of three groups: topical anesthesia alone, topical anesthesia combined with midazolam, or topical anesthesia combined with midazolam and fentanyl. Intraoperative sedation levels, hemodynamic parameters, patient satisfaction, and surgeon satisfaction will be assessed and compared among the groups. The results of this study are expected to provide evidence regarding the effectiveness and safety of sedation during cataract surgery performed under topical anesthesia and to help optimize perioperative sedation strategies for these patients.

Strengthening Community- to- Hospital Eye Care Pathways From Boko Eye Care Center in Rural Assam

This operational research project aims to strengthen continuity of eye care delivery between community screening and hospital-based treatment in rural Assam by redesigning referral pathways from the Boko Eye Care Center (ECC) to Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya (SSDN) base hospital. Despite active outreach in the Boko region from the Boko ECC through conducting regular outreach screenings, less than 30 percent of patients referred to the base hospital actually arrive for evaluation and less than 25 percent of those advised for surgery proceed to treatment. The proposed study addresses these gaps by examining behavioural, structural and logistical barriers to referral completion and surgical uptake, and by implementing a coordinated patient-centered referral and engagement strategy. The proposed intervention comprises of five sequential components: (1) root cause analysis to identify bottlenecks and facilitators in the current referral pathway, (2) community engagement activities to improve awareness and proactive health-seeking behaviour, (3) implementation of an integrated referral and engagement model supported by trained community team and structured referral tracking, (4) strengthening referral completion through patient navigation, scheduled transport and follow-up reminders, and (5) enhancement of surgical acceptance through standardized counseling, affordability support and social reinforcement. The outcomes will be measured prospectively, focusing on increase in hospital footfall from the Boko catchment area, proportion of referred patients who complete hospital visits, and proportion of patients who were advised for surgery and had undergone the procedure. The proposed project aims to achieve a minimum of 70 percent referral completion and 45 percent surgical conversion by the end of the 36-month study period.