Comparing two types of corneal transplant surgeries for better vision outcomes

Descemet Endothelial Thickness Comparison Trial (DETECT)

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11062473

This study is looking at two different types of eye surgeries to see which one helps people with corneal issues see better while keeping their eye cells healthy, and it also tests a special eye drop to see if it helps after the surgery; it's for patients who need a corneal transplant.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11062473 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of two corneal transplant techniques, ultrathin Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (UT-DSAEK) and Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK), in improving visual acuity while minimizing cell loss and complications. The study also examines the impact of a topical medication, rho-kinase inhibitors, on maintaining endothelial cell health after surgery. Patients with endothelial dysfunction who are candidates for these procedures will be randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups to assess outcomes. The trial is conducted across multiple centers, including Stanford University and others, ensuring a diverse patient population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with endothelial dysfunction who are suitable for either UT-DSAEK or DMEK corneal transplant procedures.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have endothelial dysfunction or are not candidates for corneal transplantation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved visual outcomes and reduced risk of graft failure for patients undergoing corneal transplantation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches in corneal transplantation, indicating potential for significant advancements in this area.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.