Comparing tube positions in glaucoma implants to protect corneal cells

Glaucoma Drainage Device and Endothelial Cell Density Loss Compare (DECLARE) Trial

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11520347

This trial compares two tube placements for glaucoma drainage implants to see which better protects corneal cells and controls eye pressure in people with uncontrolled glaucoma.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11520347 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

You would be randomly assigned to have the drainage tube placed either in the ciliary sulcus (behind the iris) or in the anterior chamber (front of the eye). About 240 patients will be enrolled across multiple centers and the outcome reviewers will be masked to which placement you received. The team will measure corneal endothelial cell loss, intraocular pressure control, and changes in the anterior chamber microenvironment over time. Regular in-person eye exams and imaging will track these outcomes after surgery.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Adults with medically uncontrolled glaucoma who are scheduled for a glaucoma drainage device procedure and meet the study's eligibility criteria are ideal candidates.

Not a fit: People who do not need GDD surgery, have active ocular infections, or have prior corneal transplants or other conditions that prevent either tube placement may not benefit from this trial.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the trial could identify a tube position that reduces corneal cell loss and lowers the risk of corneal failure after glaucoma surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous evidence is limited to a few small retrospective studies with mixed results, so this larger randomized trial is novel and intended to provide more definitive answers.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.