Research
Eye Center Northeast, as a research and vision care facility, has an entire team devoted to research for the preservation and restoration of sight. Members of this research team have participated in research projects involving corneal transplantation, glaucoma, ocular hypertension, infection and inflammation, ocular surface diseases (corneal ulceration, tear insufficiency / dry eye), posterior membrane opacification (secondary cataract) & contact lenses. Continued study of the eye and visual system is imperative in gaining greater understanding of the causes of disease, to develop more effective treatments and to improve the lives of those afflicted. Eye Center Northeast is actively recruiting and enrolling patients in the following categories: * Dry Eye (moderate to severe) Dry Eye continues to afflict approximately 14 million Americans despite the advances in artificial tears and tear drainage modification. If you have sandy / gritty irritation, burning, itchiness or light sensitivity and these symptoms get worse as the day goes on, you may be experiencing "Dry Eye". These studies involve investigational medications being developed to treat the disease of "Dry Eye" rather than the symptom of dryness. This can include patients with Sjogren's Syndrome, Inflammatory or Connective Tissue Diseases (arthritis, et al). Participation in these studies will be limited. To discuss qualifying for the study, please e-mail Luana Wilbur, Clinical Research Director, at lwilbur@eyecenterne.com or contact her at (207) 947-1291 ext 213. Glaucoma or Ocular Hypertension As the leading cause of blindness world wide, glaucoma continues to be a popular target of ongoing research. Some of these studies are designed to combine currently available and FDA approved medication into a single dose daily drop to improve compliance and efficacy. Others are comparing some of the top rated glaucoma treatments in an effort to discover which is the best for which type of patient. If you are taking one or more medications for the treatment of ocular hypertension or glaucoma or you are newly diagnosed with either condition and not yet taking glaucoma medication, you may qualify to participate in one of our glaucoma research projects. Participation in these studies will be limited. Pink Eye [Conjunctivitis] Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the membrane that covers the eyelid's inner surface. It can be highly contagious; the viral, bacterial and fungal causes need medical attention. Bacterial Conjunctivitis is caused by certain types of bacteria that have made their way to the eye. This study evaluates the safety and effectiveness of an investigational drug eye drop in individuals with the bacterial variety of Pink Eye and involves three visits over a period of approximately eight days. Lid infection / inflammation [Blepharitis] You could be eligible to participate in this research study of an investigational medicine for patients with an eye infection involving the eyelids [Blepharitis] if you are experiencing the following symptoms: - Eye lid swelling - Scaling or crusting eyelids - Redness around the eyelids - Burning, itching or a feeling of dryness Participants are provided with some or all of the following for the duration of a study: - All eye examinations and specialized testing: - All required lab testing; - Study related medication and supplies; and - Financial compensation upon successful study completion. For the most rapid response, e-mail Luana Wilbur at lwilbur@eyecenterne.com or contact her by phone at (207) 947-1291 ext. 213
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