Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 21 to 50

Comparing two laser procedures for treating myopia

Official title: Comparison of Femto LDV Z8 Corneal Lenticule Extraction for Advanced Refractive Correction (CLEAR) and Visumax Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE)

Run by Singapore Eye Research Institute · NCT06774651 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing two different laser treatments for nearsightedness to see which one works better and has fewer side effects.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages21 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
Enrollment65 (estimated)
SponsorSingapore Eye Research Institute
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Singapore)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMarch 1, 2023
Main results expectedOctober 31, 2025
Study endsDecember 31, 2025
Registry record updatedJanuary 14, 2025
Trial IDNCT06774651 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 to 50 with myopia or myopic astigmatism who meet specific refractive criteria.

Probably not a fit

Patients with progressive or unstable myopia, keratoconus, or those seeking bilateral SMILE procedures may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study compares two laser corrective procedures for myopia: the novel CLEAR technique and the established SMILE procedure. Participants will be randomized to receive CLEAR in one eye and SMILE in the other, allowing for direct comparison of outcomes. The study will evaluate refractive predictability, clinical dry eye outcomes, changes in tear proteins, and corneal nerve changes over a 12-month period. Additionally, the metabolomic features of the removed corneal tissue and laser centering precision will be assessed to determine the effectiveness of each procedure.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into which laser procedure offers better vision correction and fewer complications for patients with myopia.

How similar studies have gone: While SMILE has been established as effective, the CLEAR technique is novel and its comparative effectiveness is yet to be fully explored.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* \>/= 21 years of age and \</= 50 years of age.
* Cycloplegic spherical equivalent of \>-1.00D
* Refractive cylinder -2.00 D or less; anisometropia \<1.00D
* Best spectacle corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) of 6/12 or better in BOTH eyes.
* Spherical or cylindrical error has progressed at -0.50D or less per year from date of baseline measurement.
* Contact lens wearers must have removed contact lenses at least two (2) weeks before the baseline measurement.
* No evidence of irregular astigmatism on corneal topography.
* Available to attend post-operative examinations for a 12-month period.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Progressive or unstable myopia and/or astigmatism.
* Clinical or corneal topographic evidence of keratoconus.
* Patients who want bilateral SMILE procedure
* Patients who want extracted corneal lenticule to be stored for future refractive surgery.
* Residual, recurrent or active ocular disease such as uveitis, severe dry eyes, severe allergic eye disease, glaucoma, visually significant cataract and retinal disease.
* Previous corneal surgery or trauma within the corneal treatment zone.
* Corneal vascularisation within 1mm of the corneal treatment zone.
* Taking systemic medications likely to affect wound healing, such as corticosteroids and antimetabolites.
* Systemically immunocompromised.
* Systemic disease likely to affect wound healing, such as diabetes, connective tissue disease and severe atopy.
* Pregnant or nursing.

Where it's running

  • Singapore National Eye Centre
    Singapore, Singapore
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.