Surgical Implant Slows Vision Loss in Rare Eye Disease: NEJM Evidence Study
In a new development for patients suffering from macular telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel), a rare and progressive retinal disease, a surgically implanted neuroprotective device has been shown to slow vision loss. The findings, published in NEJM Evidence, are based on two Phase III clinical trials evaluating the effectiveness of ENCELTO—a device that delivers a therapeutic protein directly to the retina to preserve central vision.
MacTel is a degenerative condition that gradually destroys central vision, severely impacting quality of life. Until now, there have been no approved treatment options for this orphan retinal disorder. The ENCELTO device offers a novel approach: it is surgically implanted and continuously releases ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), a protein known to protect retinal neurons.
The two randomized trials enrolled 228 participants across 47 international sites and followed them over 24 months. The study showed that the implant could significantly slow photoreceptor cell degeneration compared to sham-treated eyes.
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