ERIE, Pa.—The Centers for Advanced Surgical Exploration (CASExGLOBAL), a leader in ophthalmology innovation providing access to top retina surgeons for mentoring, research and education, has announced a partnership with Clinical AI and iOR Partners to introduce the first-ever AI-powered sight management organization (SMO) bringing decentralized clinical trials to ophthalmic office-based surgery (OBS) centers. Under the leadership of retina specialist Dr. David Almeida, this initiative brings together artificial intelligence (AI) and a decentralized trial framework, designed to streamline processes, enhance patient safety and accelerate drug and device development, according to the announcement.

In addition to the innovation of AI-powered systems, iOR Suites’ robust accreditation framework ensures that sites meet high standards of quality and performance, according to the announcement. Both companies will showcase their capabilities at the annual American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting in Chicago, scheduled for October 19-21.

"At CASExGLOBAL, our unwavering commitment is to surgical excellence, patient safety and scientific integrity," said Dr. Almeida, founder of CASExGLOBAL. "The OBS model we've developed at Erie Retina Research & The Centers for Advanced Surgical Exploration (CASEx) represents the most efficient approach to operating an ophthalmology-focused clinical research site. It accelerates the pace of research while prioritizing patient safety and experience. This model is primed for growth, and through our partnership with iOR, we're prepared to extend our novel approach and proven strategies to more than 130 iOR Suites worldwide."

Tony Burns, chief strategy officer of iOR Partners, added, “iOR Suites are full operating theaters that pass a rigorous accreditation process, making them an ideal environment for decentralized trials. With our broad surgeon network and the ability to work directly with sponsors, we will roll out unique strategies that can redefine clinical research across ophthalmology.”

“This collaboration between CASExGLOBAL, Clinical AI, and iOR positions CASEx@iOR at the forefront of clinical trial innovation, with plans to expand these decentralized, AI-powered trials to a global scale," said Hamza Hasan, chief executive officer of Clinical AI. "Together, we are enabling faster, safer and more efficient clinical trials directly in collaboration with sponsors, offering unmatched reach and innovation.”