This study evaluates NEXAGON® (lufepirsen ophthalmic gel) for people with persistent corneal epithelial defects (PCED), which are wounds on the eye's surface that don't heal well. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either NEXAGON or a placebo (a substance with no treatment effect) for up to 8 weeks, followed by a 4-week follow-up. If the wound doesn't heal or stays healed for 28 days after treatment, participants may receive NEXAGON for another 8 weeks. PCED should last at least 2 weeks, and other treatments must not have worked. Participants must agree in writing to join the study, and women must prove they are not pregnant.

• Study involves up to 8 weeks of treatment and 4 weeks of follow-up.
• If initial treatment doesn't work, there's an option for further treatment.
• Participants must be screened for eligibility and agree to study terms.