Avisi Technologies announced that the first patient in its international SAPPHIRE trial has been successfully treated with the company’s next-generation glaucoma device, VisiPlate. 

The SAPPHIRE Trial (NCT07220876) is a prospective, multicenter, open-label clinical study designed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of VisiPlate in patients with open-angle glaucoma. The inaugural VisiPlate procedure was performed by study investigator Kiersten Snyder, MD.

“The VisiPlate is a remarkable technology showcasing a thin and flexible design for controlled aqueous outflow. It was also easy to install,” said Dr. Snyder.

VisiPlate is engineered to reduce IOP sustainably by enhancing the outflow of aqueous humor. The device features multiple redundant microchannels intended to maintain consistent flow while reducing the risk of blockage and the need for re-intervention. Made from ultrathin, biocompatible materials, VisiPlate avoids design limitations associated with many existing treatment options.

The device has demonstrated promising long-term results in the VITA trial, with follow-up data presented at the 2025 American Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Meeting.

“VisiPlate is an advanced technology designed to maximize patients’ quality of life. Dr. Snyder’s successful VisiPlate surgery progresses a needed solution for managing glaucoma and preserving vision," said Rui Jing Jiang, Founder and CEO of Avisi Technologies. "We are grateful for the expertise of our physician collaborators and look forward to treating more glaucoma patients through the SAPPHIRE Trial.”

SAPPHIRE Trial Sites and Goals

The SAPPHIRE trial is now active across multiple U.S. locations, including Arizona Advanced Eye Research, Glendale; Glaucoma Associates of Texas, Dallas; ICON Eye Care, Grand Junction, Colorado; Sacramento Eye Consultants; and The Eye Centers of Racine & Kenosha, Kenosha, Wisconsn.

Additional site activations are planned for 2026. Across approximately 13 clinical locations, the study aims to enroll about 65 patients. Data generated are expected to support future FDA submissions for VisiPlate.

The primary endpoint of the SAPPHIRE trial is the proportion of subjects achieving a clinically significant reduction in diurnal IOP at 12 months compared with baseline, while remaining on the same or fewer glaucoma medications. Safety assessments, patient-reported outcomes, and vision-quality feedback will also be collected through the 12-month follow-up period.