NCT05331664 · Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Dropless Pars Plana Vitrectomy Study
(DVS)
What this study is about
To demonstrate that intraoperative use of subtenon triamcinolone acetonide at the time of surgery without postoperative eye drops is non-inferior to the regimen of postoperative eye drops following primary pars plana vitrectomy for retinal detachment.
View original scientific description
To demonstrate that intraoperative use of subtenon triamcinolone acetonide at the time of surgery without postoperative eye drops is non-inferior to the regimen of postoperative eye drops following primary pars plana vitrectomy for retinal detachment.
Interventions
PROCEDURE
Pars plana vitrectomy
Standard of care surgery
DRUG
Triamcinolone Acetonide 40mg/mL
Sub-tenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide (40mg/mL) at the time of surgery
DRUG
Moxifloxacin 0.5% or Polymyxin/Trimethoprim if patient is allergic to moxifloxacin
Antibiotic eye drop 4 times per day for 1 week after surgery
DRUG
Prednisolone 1%
Steroid eye drop 4 times per day tapered by one drop weekly for 4 weeks (4/3/2/1 taper) after surgery
DRUG
Atropine 1%
Eye drop daily for 1 week after surgery
Primary outcome measures
Mean anterior chamber cell
Time frame: Day 7 after surgical procedure
Mean anterior chamber cell based on SUN (Standardization of Uveitis Nomenclature) criteria as measured by Slit Lamp Biomicroscopy
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (mac-on or mac-off) requiring pars plana vitrectomy (23, 25 and 27-gauge)
Exclusion criteria
- Need for concomitant lensectomy or cataract surgery
- Pars plana vitrectomy taking place more than seven days after the initial diagnosis
- History of any prior vitreoretinal surgery (excluding laser surgery) in surgical eye
- History of previous retinal detachment in surgical eye
- History of ocular incisional surgery within six months of surgery (excluding laser surgery) in surgical eye
- History of ocular laser surgery within 1 month in surgical eye
- History of intravitreal injection within 1 month in surgical eye
- Diagnosis of glaucoma or intraocular pressure more than 21 mmHg in either eye
- Active or chronic or recurrent uncontrolled ocular or systemic disease
- Active or history of chronic or recurrent inflammatory eye disease
- Previous history of steroid response
- Current treatment with oral, topical, or intravitreal corticosteroids
- Presence of proliferative vitreoretinopathy at the time of diagnosis
- Presence of giant retinal tear at the time of diagnosis
- Diagnosis of proliferative diabetic retinopathy
- Anterior chamber inflammation on presentation in either eye
- Signs of ocular infection at presentation in either eye
- Acute external ocular infections
- Known or suspected sensitivity or allergy to any of the medications used in the operation or postoperatively
- Inability to use or apply topical eye drops
- Requirement for silicone oil as a tamponade agent
- Individuals with impaired decision-making capacity
- Non-English-speaking subjects
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 26, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations