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Comparing low energy and standard energy SLT therapy for glaucoma

Clarifying the Optimal Application of SLT Therapy Trial

Phase 3 Interventional University of Pittsburgh · NCT04967989

This study tests if using lower energy for laser treatment can help people with glaucoma manage their eye pressure better and reduce the need for daily eye drops compared to standard energy treatment.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment790 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Pittsburgh Academic / other
Locations29 sites (Laguna Hills, California and 28 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04967989 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) performed at low energy compared to standard energy in treating glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It will also investigate whether repeating SLT at low energy annually can better prevent or delay the need for daily eye drop medications compared to waiting for the effects of SLT to diminish. Participants will be monitored for their intraocular pressure and overall eye health throughout the study.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 or older with high-risk ocular hypertension or mild to moderate primary open-angle glaucoma.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced glaucoma or those who do not meet the inclusion criteria may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a less invasive treatment option for glaucoma patients, potentially reducing their reliance on daily medications.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with SLT therapy, suggesting that this approach may be effective, although the specific low energy application is less commonly tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria 
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 18 or older and in good health
2. Each eye with one of the following qualifying diagnoses (diagnoses may differ between eyes):

   1. High-risk ocular hypertension (OHT): IOP \> 21 mmHg without glaucomatous optic neuropathy (excavation, diffuse or focal thinning or notching of the neuroretinal rim, visible nerve fiber layer defects, or asymmetry of the vertical cup-to-disc ratio of \>0.2 between eyes)
   2. Mild primary open-angle glaucoma: glaucomatous optic neuropathy, visual field mean deviation better than -6.0 dB with no points in the central 5° \<15 dB (see figure on next page)
   3. Moderate primary open-angle glaucoma: glaucomatous optic neuropathy, visual field mean deviation equal to or worse than -6.0 dB but no worse than -12.0 dB and no central 5° points \<15 dB or mean deviation -12.0 dB or better with 1 central 5° points \<15 dB (see figure on next page).
3. Each eye with BCVA 20/200 (UK 6/60) or better

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Use of topical IOP-lowering medications for more than 6 cumulative months at any time in the past 5 years (this is a modification implemented during active enrollment)
2. Any history of IOP-lowering laser (prophylactic iridotomy not included) or surgical procedure
3. Advanced POAG in either eye (worse than moderate POAG as defined above)
4. Glaucoma other than POAG (including pigmentary and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma) in either eye
5. Mean IOP \> 35 mmHg at either the screening or baseline visit in either eye
6. Narrow or closed angle (Shaffer Grade 0, 1, or 2) in either eye
7. Contraindications to SLT or any other study intervention
8. Any corneal pathology that would preclude accurate assessment of IOP by Goldmann tonometry in either eye
9. Any intraocular surgical procedure within the past 6 months in either eye
10. Inability to attend all scheduled study visits
11. Pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the next 4 years

Where this trial is running

Laguna Hills, California and 28 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
View on ClinicalTrials.gov → Find more trials like this →
Conditions Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertensionglaucomaselective laser trabeculoplastyclinical trial
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.