Direct (non-contact) laser versus standard selective laser for treating glaucoma
A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Direct Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (DSLT) and Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) in Reducing Intraocular Pressure in Open-Angle Glaucoma
This test compares a newer non-contact laser (DSLT) with the standard SLT to see if it lowers eye pressure just as well in adults with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 172 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Medical University of South Carolina Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Charleston, South Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT07408154 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Adults with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension are randomly assigned to receive either direct selective laser trabeculoplasty (DSLT), a newer non-contact approach, or standard selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT). Both are FDA-approved laser treatments that aim to lower intraocular pressure and slow vision loss, and participants are followed for 12 months with regular eye-pressure checks and safety monitoring. Primary outcomes include changes in intraocular pressure and treatment-related adverse events, with additional measures of treatment comfort and efficiency. The trial is designed as a noninferiority comparison to determine whether DSLT performs at least as well as standard SLT.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18 or older with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension, a gonioscopically open angle, and the ability to consent and attend follow-up visits are appropriate candidates.
Not a fit: Patients with angle-closure or secondary glaucomas, very high uncontrolled IOP (>35 mmHg), significant corneal disease, recent (<6 months) eye surgery, or other contraindications would not benefit or may be excluded.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If DSLT is noninferior, patients could have access to a similarly effective but quicker, non-contact laser option that may be more comfortable and easier to deliver.
How similar studies have performed: Standard SLT has a well-established evidence base for lowering eye pressure, while DSLT is newer with early promising results but less long-term data.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age ≥18 years * Diagnosis of OAG (including exfoliative or pigmentary) or OHT * Gonioscopically open angle (visible scleral spur 360°) * Ability to consent and comply with follow-up Exclusion Criteria: * Angle-closure or secondary glaucomas * IOP \>35 mmHg despite therapy * Corneal pathology interfering with laser or IOP measurement * Recent ocular surgery (\<6 months) * Contraindications to study medications or procedures * Cognitive impairment preventing consent
Where this trial is running
Charleston, South Carolina
- Musc — Charleston, South Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jella An, MD — Medical University of South Carolina
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.