Prosthetic Retina

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common cause of blindness in developed countries, affecting one in every eight people over the age of 85. In AMD, the portion of the retina that enables people to distinguish fine detail loses its ability to translate light into electrical signals. This results in a loss of vision at the center of their field of view, making it difficult (if not impossible) to function independently.

Now researchers have developed a silicon implant that could restore sight to AMD sufferers. It receives video images from a camera mounted on a set of goggles. The images are converted to electrical current that stimulates cells in the retina, generating an image that the patient can see. The prosthetic retina operates wirelessly, receiving its power from the goggles as well, making it easier to implant than current devices.