Using advanced imaging to improve corneal surgery outcomes

Optical Coherence Tomography Guided Transepithelial Phototherapeutic Keratectomy

NA · Oregon Health and Science University · NCT01243931

This study is testing whether using advanced imaging technology can help doctors perform better surgeries for people with corneal scars to improve their vision.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorOregon Health and Science University (other)
Locations1 site (Portland, Oregon)
Trial IDNCT01243931 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to enhance the effectiveness of phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) for patients with corneal opacity by utilizing Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) technology. The researchers will employ high-speed OCT to accurately measure the depth and shape of corneal scars and irregularities, guiding laser treatment to improve vision outcomes. By moving away from subjective assessments, this approach seeks to provide a more precise and reliable method for treating superficial corneal defects. The ultimate goal is to restore vision in patients with irregularly shaped corneas through improved surgical techniques.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients whose vision is primarily limited by superficial corneal opacities that can be treated with PTK.

Not a fit: Patients with deep corneal opacities, cataracts, or other significant eye conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve vision restoration for patients with corneal opacities.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies utilizing advanced imaging techniques in ophthalmology have shown promising results, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with vision primarily limited by superficial opacities and irregularities that could be removed by PTK while leaving at least 250 µm.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to give informed consent
* Inability to maintain stable fixation for OCT imaging
* Inability to commit to required visits to complete the study
* Deep corneal opacities and irregularities
* Cataracts, retinal disease, glaucoma, or other eye conditions that may limit the visual outcome after surgery

Where this trial is running

Portland, Oregon

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Corneal Opacity, Phototherapeutic keratectomy, Optical coherence tomography, Corneal opacity, Corneal dystrophy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.