Retinal Implant for Retinitis Pigmentosa Shows Promise
Scientists at the University of Tübingen in Germany have developed an eye implant that has had success in restoring some vision in patients suffering from retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease that can result in blindness and affects about 1 in 4,000 people worldwide. While the findings are the result of a small study, they are particularly important as a "proof of concept" that demonstrates that the optic nerves can be "...re-awakened for them to be able to see again", according to Robert Maclaren, professor of Ophthalmology at Britain's Oxford University. Further trials in 25 to 50 European patients are planned and some scientists say the device could become routine for some kinds of blindness in five years.
Fundus photograph of subretinal implant- University of Tübingen, Germany
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