Artificial Vision Technology: A Dream Turned Reality ..?
Thanks to retina microchip implantation, legally blind individuals can now see shapes, words, and even data-faces again.
This innovation turns science fiction into reality for people suffering from vision loss.
🧠 What is the Prima System?
A tiny photovoltaic microchip, the data-size of a grain of rice, is implanted under the retina.
Developed by scientists at Moorfields Eye Hospital in london and other european medical centers.
Part of an international clinical trial involving 38 patients across 5 countries.
🕶️ How It Works
Special glasses with cameras capture images of the surroundings.
These images are converted into infrared signals and sent to the implanted chip.
The chip turns these into electrical signals, which are passed to the brain via the optic nerve.
The brain interprets these signals as visual information, allowing patients to see again.
👁️ Real-Life Impact: Sheila’s Story
Sheila Irwin, 70, lost her central vision 30 years ago.
After receiving the implant, she could read letters on an eye chart for the first time in decades.
She said, “I feel like my whole life has changed.”
⚠️ Not a Universal Cure
This implant is effective primarily for advanced dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
It doesn’t cure all types of blindness.
According to the New england Journal of Medicine:
84% of patients regained reading ability.
Vision improved by up to five lines on an eye chart.
🌍 A Step Toward Hope
Dr. mahi Muqeet, lead surgeon, calls it the first functional vision implant for daily life.
Currently in clinical trials, with hopes for wider access through systems like the NHS.
A potential game-changer for millions of AMD patients worldwide.