Retina Associates of Cleveland is part of the Diabetic Retinopathy Clinical Research Network (DRCR.net), a national network of retinal specialists working together to facilitate clinical research on diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, and associated conditions. The DRCR.net is funded by the National Eye Institute, which is part of the NIH.
Currently, there are two ongoing DRCR.net research studies. Both of these are evaluating treatments for diabetic macular edema, a swelling of the macula, which is the small central part of the retina used for sharp, straight-ahead vision.
The Laser Photocoagulation for Diabetic Macular Edema study is comparing standard laser treatment with mild macular grid laser treatment that is milder in intensity, but more extensive in number of laser burns.
The Randomized Trial Comparing Intravitreal Triamcinolone Acetonide and Laser Photocoagulation for Diabetic Macular Edema is comparing standard laser treatment with two different doses of triamcinolone, a steroid, injected into the eye.
Additional information may be found at DRCR.net.
Another ongoing study at Retina Associates of Cleveland is the PKC Beta Inhibitor Study. This study, sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company, is evaluating an investigational medication to treat diabetic macular edema. To be eligible, you must be 18 years of age or older, have either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, have met diagnostic criteria for diabetic macular edema, and not be pregnant or intend to become pregnant during the study. Study participants will take either an investigational drug or a placebo tablet once daily for 3 years.
These three studies are open to participation by eligible patients.
For information please contact the research coordinator,
at ext. 297.