Scleral Implants in Chicago
Presbyopia Treatment at the Midwest Center for Sight
James Katz, M.D. is participating in a research study of an
investigational surgical method to correct presbyopia (age-related
loss of reading vision). With age, the natural lens of the eye loses its ability to focus on objects that are close by, causing people to become dependent on reading glasses. Scleral implants may improve the eye’s ability to accommodate and see objects at close range. The placement of scleral implants is currently being tested for safety and efficacy. This means they have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, and the Chicago LASIK providers at the Midwest Center for Sight have opted to join these trials.
If you are interested in taking part in the research study, please contact the Midwest Center for Sight today. We would be happy to schedule a screening appointment with you to determine whether you qualify for the research study. If it is determined that you are a suitable candidate for scleral implants, you will receive the procedure and the associated medical examinations at no cost as part of the study.
About Presbyopia
Presbyopia occurs naturally in individuals over the age of 50. As the eye ages, it loses its ability to focus. In a healthy eye, tiny eye muscles contract, pulling on fibers that are attached to the lens. This causes the lens to become rounder and more powerful, allowing the person to focus on a close object. Over time, the lens grows larger, and the fibers become looser and unable to change the shape of the lens. This prevents the lens from focusing.
Scleral Implants
The investigational research study involves the use of synthetic implants into the sclera, or the white part of the eye. Scleral implants pull the eye muscles further apart, which has a tightening effect on the fibers. Tighter fibers allow the lens to change shape and focus. The implants themselves are made of plastic material, and are about the size of a grain of rice. Four are placed into each eye.
Who Is eligible for this clinical research study?
Individuals who:
- Are between the ages of 50 and 60
- Need reading glasses to see nearby objects
- Have not had prior eye surgery, including cataract surgery, LASIK, RK or PRK
- Do not have a chronic disease
Please call the Midwest Center for Sight to schedule a complimentary screening. If you are an eligible candidate for scleral implants, you will receive the surgery at no cost. Please note that participants in the study will be monitored for up to 24 months following surgery.
The Midwest Center for Sight offers comprehensive eye care and vision correction, including LASIK, CustomVue LASIK, and other types of refractive surgery in Chicago. Drs. James Katz, Richard Katz, Marshall Hirshman, Jeffrey Mono and Rakhi Patil have also helped numerous Chicago cataract surgery patients attain clear, crisp vision with the placement of intraocular lens implants.
