Stereotactic radiotherapy for wet AMD (STAR)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
StereoTactic radiotherapy for wet Age-Related macular degeneration (STAR): A randomised, double-masked, sham-controlled, clinical trial comparing low-voltage X-ray irradiation with as needed ranibizumab, to as needed ranibizumab monotherapy.
IRAS ID
86810
Contact name
Timothy L. Jackson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
Research summary
This study investigates the use of radiation to treat wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The radiation is delivered using a robotically controlled device that projects overlapping beams of radiation onto the macula, the part of the eye that is affected by wet AMD. Participants will be randomized to receive radiation (stereotactic radiotherapy) or simulated placebo treatment (sham control). They will be follow up regularly for two years, and then again at the end of three and four years for a safety visit. Participants will also receive injections of bevacizumab (Avastin) into their eye if their wet AMD is active. Bevacizumab is a drug directed against vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). It is similar to the standard anti-VEGF agent (ranibizumab) that is used to treat wet AMD. The study aims to determine if stereotactic radiosurgery can maintain vision and reduce the need for such regular anti-VEGF injections.
REC name
London - City & East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/LO/1207
Date of REC Opinion
23 Oct 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion