Fixation Training for Macular Degeneration
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether a special type of eye training, known as fixation training, can help individuals with macular degeneration or similar eye conditions improve their vision. The focus is on reducing fixational eye movements, which are quick and often exaggerated movements that might worsen vision. Participants will undergo several training sessions to practice keeping their eyes steady on a target. This trial suits those with significant vision issues due to macular disorders in both eyes, especially if they have trouble with central vision.
As an unphased trial, this study offers participants a unique opportunity to potentially improve their vision through innovative training techniques.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this fixation training is safe for people with central vision loss?
Research shows that fixation training is usually easy for participants to handle. This training involves simple exercises where participants focus on a target while researchers monitor and adjust eye movements. It is non-invasive, meaning it doesn't involve surgery or medication, which often results in fewer side effects.
In studies of similar non-invasive eye training methods, participants have not reported any major problems. Since this trial does not involve any drugs or surgery, the risks remain low. However, as with any study, participants might feel a bit uncomfortable or tired from the training sessions, which last about an hour each. This is normal for activities requiring intense focus but isn't considered harmful.
Overall, fixation training is considered safe because it doesn't involve surgery or medication, and similar research has not shown any significant side effects.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about fixation training for macular degeneration because it offers a novel approach by focusing on eye movement adaptation rather than directly treating the retina. Unlike standard treatments like anti-VEGF injections or laser therapy, which target the eye's physical structure to slow disease progression, this method aims to optimize how patients use their remaining vision. By training the brain to adjust microsaccades—tiny, rapid eye movements—patients might improve their visual stability and clarity. This innovative focus on neuroadaptation could enhance patients' quality of life without the invasiveness of traditional treatments.
What evidence suggests that fixation training is effective for macular degeneration?
Research suggests that fixation training, which participants in this trial will undergo, might improve vision in people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Stargardt disease. This training teaches individuals to better control their small, quick eye movements, known as microsaccades, to steady their vision. Although direct proof is lacking, some studies indicate that reducing these movements could enhance visual acuity. Early results from eye movement training are promising, showing that it can help individuals with macular diseases perform visual tasks more effectively. This method relies on the idea that controlling eye movements can lead to clearer vision.678910
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with central vision loss, often due to conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or Stargardt disease. Participants should have abnormal fixational eye movements compared to those with normal vision.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Training
Participants undergo fixation training to modify fixational eye movements, consisting of 5-6 sessions of training (about 1 hour each).
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in fixation stability and functional vision after training.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Fixation training
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
National Eye Institute (NEI)
Lead Sponsor