Improving reading for patients with central vision loss
Official title: Remapping the Visual Field to Aid Reading With Central Scotomas
Run by University of Minnesota · NCT03848663 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing different ways to help people with age-related macular degeneration read better by trying out techniques that adjust missing text.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 16 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 108 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Minnesota Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 1, 2022 |
| Main results expected | November 1, 2026 |
| Study ends | November 1, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | July 8, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT03848663 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals aged 16 and older with central vision loss of at least 5 degrees diameter due to bilateral central scotomas.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with unilateral scotomas or those with central vision loss of less than 5 degrees diameter 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 study evaluates reading performance in individuals with age-related macular degeneration and central vision loss by testing various remapping techniques for missing text. Participants will undergo an initial assessment of their visual field loss, followed by reading tasks that include random letters, words, and natural text. The study will compare reading performance with and without remapping, utilizing both traditional and personalized approaches. Control participants will have artificial scotomas to assess the effectiveness of the remapping strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance reading abilities for patients with central vision loss, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using visual remapping techniques for similar conditions, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. 16 years or older 2. Central vision loss of at least 5 deg diameter, including the fovea, from bilateral central scotomas 3. Stable fixation (+/- 1 deg) using their PRL. 4. No cognitive impairment as indicated by a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). 5. Satisfactory calibration achievable using eye tracker Exclusion Criteria: 1. Central vision loss of less than 5 deg diameter; scotomas that do not cover the fovea; unilateral scotomas 2. Poor fixation (worse than+/- 1 deg) using their PRL. 3. Cognitive impairment as indicated by a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). 4. Satisfactory calibration not achievable using eye tracker
Where it's running
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University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Stephen Engel, Ph.D. — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Stephen Engel, Ph.D.
- Email: engel@umn.edu
- Phone: 612-625-5571
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.