"Macula Research Group - Clinical Trials Unit"

I was referred to the Accident and Emergency Department of the Sydney Eye Hospital by the City office of HCF resulting from an eye-test check which revealed a bleed in the Macular of the right eye. The A&E team confirmed that I had experienced a BRVO which required further investigation and treatment. The medical team indicated that the BRVO was of a type that satisfied the criteria to join the NIRVO trial at the Hospital which was being sponsored by the University of Sydney and coordinated by Dr Elisa and Professor Mark. 

Joining the trial involved a significant commitment in terms of time and the number of required visits to the Hospital particularly in the initial period of near-infrared light treatment (three treatments weekly over 4 weeks) and other follow-up review attendances over the full 6-month trial period. The medical staff made it clear that the NIR light treatment may not reduce the oedema but there is some preliminary evidence that such treatment may be beneficial, hence the trial study. I therefore decided to join the trial not solely for the potential personal benefit but also as a means to add to medical research and knowledge in this field (my wife’s father and grandfather were lifelong medical and agricultural researchers and made me aware of the importance of community participation in research trials and other forms of support). Working in the city also made the hospital visits convenient and easier.

Participation in the trial was well organised and managed and in most part the process went smoothly and was well coordinated. My main contact throughout the trial, Tommy (Clinical Research Orthoptist, Save Sight Institute), was extremely helpful in coordinating appointments and arranging the various tests as well as keeping me updated about my progress. I’d like to thank Tommy particularly for his work and assistance and also the work of other team members of the Institute and the Hospital medical staff, all of whom were approachable and happy to help.

The sight in my eye improved during the trial period and I’m hoping that some further improvements will continue