Biofeedback Training for Glaucoma
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This randomized controlled clinical trial evaluates the efficacy of visual biofeedback training on visual function and quality of life in individuals with glaucoma. Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy that can lead to irreversible vision loss, including impaired fixation stability, reduced retinal sensitivity, and decreased functional vision. Biofeedback training is a visual rehabilitation technique designed to help patients improve fixation stability and optimize use of remaining visual function by training eye movements toward retinal areas with better sensitivity.
Seventy participants with glaucoma will be randomized to either a biofeedback training intervention group or a control group. Visual function outcomes, including fixation stability, retinal sensitivity, visual acuity, reading speed, contrast sensitivity, and quality of life, will be assessed at baseline and follow-up visits. This study aims to determine whether biofeedback training can improve visual function and quality of life in patients with glaucoma.
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 18-95 with glaucoma, specifically those who have stable eye pressure and paracentral scotomata (blind spots) near the center of their vision. Participants must be able to follow instructions for biofeedback training.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants in the intervention group undergo five weekly sessions of biofeedback training, each lasting approximately 20 minutes
Control Period
Participants in the control group receive standard clinical assessments without biofeedback training
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for visual function and quality of life at scheduled follow-up visits
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Biofeedback Training
Trial Overview
The study tests if visual biofeedback training can improve eye movement control and use of remaining vision in people with glaucoma. Half the participants will receive this training while the other half won't, to compare outcomes like visual stability and quality of life.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
Participants randomized to this arm will receive visual biofeedback training in addition to standard clinical care. The intervention consists of five weekly in-office training sessions, each lasting approximately 20 minutes. During training, participants are guided using visual and auditory feedback to direct eye movements toward a preferred retinal locus with better retinal sensitivity and fixation stability. Visual function and quality of life assessments will be conducted at baseline and at scheduled follow-up visits.
Participants randomized to this arm will undergo standard clinical assessments without biofeedback training during the initial study period. Visual function and quality of life assessments will be conducted at baseline and at the 9-week follow-up visit. After completion of the control period, participants will be offered biofeedback training as part of standard clinical care.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University Health Network, Toronto
Lead Sponsor
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