The Centre for Clinical Trials (CEC) performs randomized clinical trials with special emphasis on Ophthalmology and Cardiology.

CEC has dedicated facilities and the most modern ophthalmological equipment. Its permanent staff includes one Ophthalmologist, one Pharmacist, five experienced Study Coordinators, six Technicians for Diagnostic Procedures, four Nurses, one Laboratory Technician and two Administrative Secretaries.

The professional organisation of the Centre for Clinical Trials with a Manual of SOP (Standardized Operating Procedures) and its convenient location, next to the University Hospital of Coimbra and its Department of Ophthalmology are a guarantee that the deadlines are successfully met and in compliance with the ICH Good Clinical Practice Guidelines. The Centre for Clinical Trials is certified by ISO 9001 to perform clinical trials, thus guaranteeing the continual improvement of its work in Ophthalmological Research.

CEC is also certified as an "EVI.CT.SE Site of Excellence", that is a clinical trial center in ophthalmology that complies with ICH GCP Guidelines with written SOPs, has the necessary equipment and personnel to perform clinical trials and has proven expertise and scientific publications in this area.

Areas of expertise

• Characterisation and evaluation of the most recent methods to study the initial stages of diabetic retinopathy
• Evaluation of new methodologies for multimodal mapping of the macula
• Studies of the diseases of the choroid and retina and especially of their blood circulation
• Testing new methods of early diagnosis and characterisation of macular edema and retinal vascular pathology
• Evaluation of new drugs to treat glaucoma. Development of methods to correlate clinical indicators of disease progression, particularly regarding optic nerve degeneration and the mechanisms of the actions of drugs being tested
• Evaluation of the quality of cataract microsurgery, testing new drugs for surgery procedures