Improving reading for patients with central vision loss

Remapping the Visual Field to Aid Reading With Central Scotomas

Not applicable Interventional University of Minnesota · NCT03848663

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment108 (estimated)
Ages16 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Minnesota Academic / other
Locations1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
Trial IDNCT03848663 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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.

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.

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 performed: Other studies have shown promise in using visual remapping techniques for similar conditions, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Minneapolis, Minnesota

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 Age-related Macular DegenerationScotomaRemappingReadingLow visionVisual aid
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.