Plastic implants in the eye could delay corneal transplants for keratoconus patients

NCT ID NCT02138669

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests INTACS prescription inserts, small plastic implants placed in the cornea, to reduce astigmatism and improve vision in people with keratoconus. The goal is to help patients who can no longer see well with glasses or contacts and may otherwise need a corneal transplant. Researchers will measure changes in vision, astigmatism, and corneal shape in 25 adults over time.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

INTACS prescription inserts (plastic corneal implants)

What this could lead to

If successful, this device could help people with keratoconus see better without glasses or contacts and delay or avoid the need for a corneal transplant.

What could go wrong

This is a small study (25 people) with no comparison group, so results may not apply to everyone. The device is already approved for humanitarian use, but benefits may vary and risks like infection or implant issues exist.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

corneal disorder keratoconus

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • UTSW Medical Center at Dallas

    RECRUITING

    Dallas, Texas, 75390, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact