Comparing two laser ablation techniques for eye surgery

Topography-guided vs. Wavefront Optimized Corneal Refractive Surgery: A Prospective Contralateral Randomized Double-masked Study

Not applicable Interventional 59th Medical Wing · NCT05037370

This study is testing which of two laser eye surgery techniques, wave-front optimized or topography-guided, helps people see better after surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment400 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
Sponsor59th Medical Wing Federal
Locations1 site (San Antonio, Texas)
Trial IDNCT05037370 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial is a prospective randomized contralateral double-masked study that aims to compare the visual outcomes of two different laser ablation techniques: wave-front optimized (WFO) and topography-guided (TG) during Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) or Laser-assisted in situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery. Patients will be randomized to have one eye treated with WFO and the other with TG, allowing for a direct comparison of the effectiveness of these techniques. The study will involve a thorough preoperative evaluation and education, with a focus on optimizing visual outcomes and minimizing post-operative optical aberrations. The use of advanced technology, such as the VARIO Topolyzer, will help tailor the ablation pattern to individual patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are DOD beneficiaries aged 21-50 who meet the requirements for PRK or LASIK and can commit to follow-up visits.

Not a fit: Patients with prior ocular surgeries, significant anisometropia, or those desiring monovision treatment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved visual outcomes for patients undergoing refractive eye surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar laser ablation techniques, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Meet requirements for PRK or LASIK i.e., Stable \<= .5 D change MRSE)
* DOD beneficiaries age 21-50 years
* Local pts (w/i 60 mi) who will be in the area for at least 6 months post surgery
* Willing to complete all required follow-up visits

Exclusion Criteria:

* No meeting requirements for PRK or LASIK
* Desiring monovision treatment
* Anisometropia \>2D spherical equivalent
* Prior ocular surgeries / trauma / problem
* History of dry eyes
* Hyperopia
* Mixed astigmatism
* Inability to capture VARIO topolyzer scans
* Pregnant (or who plans to be within 6 months after surgery)
* Breastfeeding any time during the study
* History of herpetic disease

Where this trial is running

San Antonio, Texas

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.
Conditions Refractive SurgeryPhotorefractive KeratectomyLaser-assisted in situ KeratomileusisWave-Front OptimizedTopography guided ablation
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.