Not yet recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Zero CDE Technique for Lens Removal During FLACS

This study is investigating a new method for cataract surgery called the Zero CDE technique. It uses a special laser, called a femtosecond laser, to gently break up the cloudy lens into small pieces without using traditional ultrasound energy. These small pieces can then be removed easily from the eye. The doctors involved believe this technique leads to a stable eye during surgery, fewer complications, and a quicker return to clear vision after the operation. This research aims to officially record and check these promising results. It's for people aged 50 and over with a common type of cataract (nuclear sclerosis grades 1 to 3).

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Bochner Eye Institute

Enrolment target

Start

15 Mar 2026

Estimated completion

14 Jul 2027

Cataract With a Nuclear Sclerosis Grade Between 1 to 3

What is this study about?

Cataracts are a common eye condition, especially as we get older, where the clear lens inside your eye becomes cloudy, making your vision blurry. The standard way to treat cataracts is surgery, where the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a new, clear artificial lens.

This study is looking at a newer way to do cataract surgery called the "Zero CDE Technique." CDE stands for "Cumulative Dissipated Energy." In traditional cataract surgery, a special tool often uses energy (like sound waves) to break up the cloudy lens. The Zero CDE technique uses a very precise laser, called a femtosecond laser, to gently chop the cataract into many tiny pieces *before* any other tools touch your eye. This means the surgeon can then remove these small pieces with very little or no extra energy inside your eye.

The doctors believe this technique might lead to a smoother surgery, fewer problems during and after the operation, and help your vision improve more quickly. This study is designed to carefully record and understand how well this new technique works for people with certain types of cataracts.

Key takeaways

This study evaluates a laser-assisted cataract surgery method.
The 'Zero CDE' technique aims to use less energy during surgery.
It might lead to a faster recovery and fewer complications.
It's for adults aged 50+ with certain types of cataracts.
Participation involves surgery and follow-up eye checks.

Who may be eligible?

To be considered for this study, you generally need to be an adult aged 50 or over and have a common type of cataract that makes your vision blurry (specifically, nuclear sclerosis grades 1 to 3, but also including some other types). You must also be able to understand and sign a form giving your permission to take part.

There are several reasons why you might not be able to join the study. These include having other eye problems like swelling of the clear front part of your eye (cornea), glaucoma (a condition that affects the optic nerve), or other specific eye diseases or previous eye injuries. If you wear certain types of contact lenses, you might need to stop wearing them for a period before your eye measurements are taken. Also, women who could potentially become pregnant are not eligible, and neither are patients having other eye surgeries at the same time as their cataract surgery.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 50 years old or older?
Do you have blurry vision caused by a cataract?
Do you have any other serious eye conditions like glaucoma or severe corneal problems?
Are you able to provide written permission to join the study?
Are you a woman of childbearing potential?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

This study aims to carefully observe and record the results of the new cataract surgery technique. If you choose to take part, you will have your cataract surgery using the Zero CDE method. Before your surgery, and at various times afterwards, you will have eye examinations and tests to check your vision and the health of your eyes. The doctors will monitor your recovery to see how quickly your vision improves and if there are any complications. The exact number of visits and the total duration of your participation would be explained in detail by the study team, but typically, cataract surgery studies involve follow-up appointments over several months to a year.

Potential risks and benefits

Potential benefits of taking part in this study include receiving cataract surgery using a potentially advanced technique that aims for quicker vision recovery and fewer complications compared to traditional methods. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks, such as infection, bleeding, or other unforeseen complications, though the study aims to minimise these. Your vision may not improve as expected. It's important to remember that participating is entirely your choice, and you are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without affecting your standard medical care.

Locations (1)

Bochner Eye Institute
Verified postcode
Toronto, Canada

Common questions

What is a cataract?

A cataract is when the natural lens inside your eye becomes cloudy, making your vision blurry and sometimes dimming colours.

What is the 'Zero CDE Technique'?

It's a new way of doing cataract surgery that uses a laser to break up the cloudy lens into small pieces, often without needing extra energy (like ultrasound) inside the eye.

Will this surgery be painful?

Cataract surgery is typically performed under local anaesthetic, meaning your eye will be numb, so you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure. You might feel some pressure.

How long does recovery usually take?

Recovery times vary for everyone, but the aim of this technique is to potentially offer a faster return to clear vision. Your doctor will advise you on what to expect.

Do I have to pay to join the study?

No, you do not have to pay to participate in the study. All study-related care is provided at no cost, though standard NHS charges for non-study related care still apply.

How to find out more

Raymond Stein, MD, FRCSC

raymondmstein@gmail.com 416-569-3806 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.