A self-proclaimed book enthusiast has become one of the pioneering individuals globally to regain her eyesight through a bionic eye implant, marking a significant breakthrough in vision restoration. Scientists have successfully developed a method to enhance vision in patients suffering from a prevalent eye disorder by implanting a chip behind the retina and equipping them with virtual reality glasses. This groundbreaking approach has been lauded as a “new era of artificial vision,” offering renewed hope to approximately 700,000 individuals in the UK grappling with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Sheila Irvine, a resident of Wiltshire, who was afflicted with geographic atrophy (GA), an advanced form of dry AMD, had experienced a loss of central vision and was left with only partial peripheral sight. Following the insertion of a tiny 2mm by 2mm Prima chip behind her retina at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, Ms. Irvine has successfully relearned reading and writing skills.
The innovative system involves the use of augmented reality glasses with an integrated video camera, transmitting visual data from the chip to a handheld computer. The computer then converts this data into an electrical signal, which is relayed to the optic nerve, allowing the brain to interpret it as visual information.
The groundbreaking trial, encompassing 38 patients across 17 sites in five countries, including the UK, France, Italy, and the Netherlands, has shown promising results in restoring vision in individuals affected by AMD. Geographical atrophy, impacting around five million individuals globally, poses a risk of progressive vision loss as the central macula deteriorates. It is estimated that one in four legally blind individuals in the UK suffer from GA due to AMD.
Mahi Muqit, a senior vitreoretinal consultant at Moorfields, expressed optimism about the potential future availability of this treatment within the National Health Service (NHS). He emphasized the transformative impact this technology has had on patients’ lives, enabling them to engage in activities such as reading, writing, and solving puzzles, previously deemed impossible for the visually impaired.
The procedure, lasting approximately two hours, involves the extraction of a gel-like substance from within the eye through a vitrectomy, followed by the insertion of the Prima chip – thinner than a human hair – beneath the retina via a specially created opening. Patients utilize virtual reality glasses equipped with a camera to read and write, with a portable computer facilitating zoom capabilities to enhance text readability.
Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the findings indicate that 84% of trial participants were able to discern and read letters, numbers, and words with the aid of the Prima chip, achieving an average reading capability of five lines on a vision chart, a feat previously unattainable for some individuals.
Sheila Irvine, motivated by a desire to contribute to future advancements, shared her positive experience with the technology, highlighting the newfound opportunities it has brought into her life. Despite being diagnosed with AMD over 15 years ago, Ms. Irvine remains resilient and actively engaged in various activities, refusing to let her condition hinder her independence and social interactions.
Mr. Muqit underscored the significant impact of this groundbreaking technology in enhancing the quality of life for visually impaired individuals, alleviating depression and social isolation by reintroducing them to activities they once enjoyed. The device ensures safety and comfort, automatically activating when the glasses are worn, offering users the flexibility to utilize it daily without time constraints.