Improving eye imaging technology for infants and young children

Widefield Confocal Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscope Optimized for Pediatric and Neonatal Imaging

['FUNDING_R21'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10701946

This study is working on a new, easier, and less stressful way to check the eyes of babies and young kids who can’t tell us if they have vision problems, helping doctors catch issues like retinopathy of prematurity earlier so they can treat them and prevent vision loss.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10701946 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new imaging technology specifically designed for infants and young children who cannot communicate vision problems. The goal is to create a widefield confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope that is more user-friendly, less stressful, and cost-effective compared to existing devices. By enhancing the ability to screen for eye diseases like retinopathy of prematurity, this technology aims to facilitate earlier diagnosis and treatment, ultimately preventing vision loss. The approach involves engineering innovations to improve usability and reduce discomfort during imaging procedures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include infants and young children, particularly those at risk for eye diseases such as premature infants.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 21 years or those without any eye health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and treatment of vision-threatening diseases in infants and young children, significantly improving their long-term visual health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing pediatric imaging technologies, but this specific approach is innovative and aims to address significant limitations of existing methods.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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.