Aiken

Researchers are investigating new treatments for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (NVAMD), a condition where current standard treatments like aflibercept do not work for everyone. This trial aims to find out if a medicine called tiespectus (also known as MK-8748 or EYE201) can treat NVAMD as well as aflibercept. The study is a pivotal Phase 2/3 trial designed to compare the effectiveness and safety of these treatments. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups: one group receives a low dose of tiespectus, another receives a high dose of tiespectus, and the third group receives aflibercept. The tiespectus groups receive three initial injections every 4 weeks, then injections every 8 weeks until week 48, followed by treatment based on individual response up to week 92. The aflibercept group receives three initial injections followed by injections every 8 weeks up to week 92. During the study, participants will have their vision tested to measure changes in best-corrected visual acuity using ETDRS letters from baseline to one year. Other assessments include optical coherence tomography scans to measure retinal thickness and monitoring for any eye or systemic side effects. The study lasts up to approximately 92 weeks to evaluate treatment effects and safety over time.

Researchers are evaluating the outcomes of two treatments for lumbar spinal stenosis with neurogenic claudication (LSS with NC) in Medicare beneficiaries. This observational study compares the rates of surgical and minimally invasive interventions, as well as any harms, occurring within 24 months after receiving either the MILD procedure or Interspinous Process Decompression (IPD). The study uses Medicare claims data starting from patients treated on or after January 1, 2017, and continues enrollment until the sponsor stops it. The study groups include Medicare patients who underwent the MILD procedure, which involves a partial decompression performed under fluoroscopic image guidance through the removal of tissue and bone at the symptomatic spinal level. The control group consists of Medicare patients treated with Interspinous Process Decompression during the same enrollment period. Both groups are monitored for reoperation and harms for 24 months following their initial treatment. Participants are included based on Medicare claims with the study's NCT number, which automatically enrolls them without requiring prior consent. Researchers will analyze Medicare claims data to track surgical or minimally invasive interventions and any complications related to the initial procedure over two years. The study does not involve direct patient visits or interventions and is exempt from Institutional Review Board oversight. The total follow-up duration for outcome measurement is 24 months after the index procedure.