ASCRS launches ectasia registry

Fairfax, VA-The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) has launched the ASCRS International Ectasia Registry as part of a two-phase project to define ectasia more precisely, determine its frequency, and identify risk factors.

The project is directed by R. Doyle Stulting, MD, PhD, professor of ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, and chairman of the ASCRS Refractive Clinical Committee.

During the first phase of the project, data on post-LASIK ectasia will be gathered and physicians and patients will be identified for future participation in the second phase’s prospective observational studies. These studies will aim to determine the incidence of ectasia and more precisely quantify the impact of preoperative factors.

“Because the registry may allow identification of risk factors that are not currently recognized, it is a giant step forward in addressing one of the most challenging complications of LASIK that we face today,” Dr. Stulting said.

Physicians and researchers can register and submit data immediately at www.ectasiaregistry.com. Those who have medical questions about the registry should contact Dr. Stulting at ophtrds@emory.edu. Technical questions about the registry should be directed to Barbara S. Fant, PharmD, of Clinical Research Consultants Inc., at bsfant@crc-regulatory.com.