The doctors of Lehmann Eye Center have the opportunity to conduct different kinds of research studies. Clinical studies help researchers understand how best to treat patients and learn more about a particular condition or disease. There are many different forms of clinical research. One common form is a clinical trial. In a clinical trial, researchers test new medicines, medical devices or treatments.

Clinical trials must be conducted before a new drug, biologic or device may be marketed in the United States. The FDA regulates clinical trials. The FDA gives investigators permission to test a new drug, biologic or device under strict regulatory conditions.

Clinical trials may seek to discover new surgical techniques or devices. Clinical trials are also conducted to test innovative therapies.

Each research study is different. Each study tries to find answers to a specific question. Researchers must follow strict rules to decide who may take part in research. To be included in research, a patient must agree to participate. Not everyone with the disease or problem that is being studied can take part in a research study. If your doctor thinks that you might qualify for a study, he or she may ask if you want to take part.