Stereotactic radiotherapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (STAR): a pivotal, randomised, double-masked, sham-controlled device trial.

Background: Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is a leading cause of blindness. The first-line therapy is anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents delivered by intravitreal injection. Ionising radiation mitigates key pathogenic processes underlying nAMD, and therefore has therapeutic potential.

Computer-controlled endoscopic performance assessment system.

We have devised an advanced computer-controlled system (ADEPT) for the objective evaluation of endoscopic task performance. The system's hardware consists of a dual gimbal mechanism that accepts a variety of 5.0-mm standard endoscopic instruments for manipulation in a precisely mapped and enclosed work space.

Psychomotor skills for endoscopic manipulations: differing abilities between right and left-handed individuals.

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the psychomotor aptitudes relevant to endoscopic manipulations between right-handed and left-handed subjects.

Summary Background Data: There has been little research on the psychomotor performance in relation to minimal access surgery and there are no psychomotor tests to evaluate aspects of psychomotor abilities relevant to endoscopic manipulations.

Methods: A microprocessor-controlled psychomotor tester was developed for objective evaluation of endoscopic performance.