Retinal implant technology has been advancing at a brisk pace in the European Union. Tiny devices that can be surgically implanted into the eyes of patients suffering from degenerative eye disorders are now clinically available, meaning people with the cash to spare (upwards of $100,000) can afford a miracle.
Two companies in particular are itching to make their products available far and wide. California-based Second Sight and Germany’s Retina Implant AG have two distinct sight restoration systems that push the boundaries of high tech.
Second Sight’s Argus II System
Here’s a detailed glimpse into Second Sight’s Argus II:
“With the Argus II system, a camera mounted on a pair of glasses captures images, and corresponding signals are fed wirelessly to a chip implanted near the retina. These signals are sent to an array of implanted electrodes that stimulate retinal cells, producing light in the patient’s field of view. The process works for people with retinitis pigmentosa because the disease damages only the light-sensing photoreceptors, leaving the remaining retinal cells healthy.”
The Argus II system has been a groundbreaking development in the field of retinal implants. It has provided a new lease on life for many individuals who have been living in darkness due to retinitis pigmentosa. The system’s ability to bypass damaged photoreceptors and directly stimulate the remaining healthy retinal cells is a testament to the incredible advancements in medical technology. Patients who have undergone the procedure have reported significant improvements in their ability to perceive light and shapes, which has had a profound impact on their quality of life.
Retina Implant AG’s Alpha AMS
Retina Implant AG, on the other hand, offers the Alpha AMS, another innovative solution for those suffering from degenerative eye disorders. The Alpha AMS is a subretinal implant that is placed beneath the retina. Unlike the Argus II, which relies on an external camera, the Alpha AMS uses a microchip that directly converts light into electrical signals. These signals are then transmitted to the brain, allowing the patient to perceive visual information.
The Alpha AMS has shown promising results in clinical trials, with patients experiencing improved visual acuity and the ability to recognize faces and objects. This technology represents a significant step forward in the quest to restore vision to those who have lost it due to retinal diseases.
Both the Argus II and the Alpha AMS have their unique advantages and limitations. The choice between the two systems often depends on the specific needs and preferences of the patient, as well as the underlying cause of their vision loss. However, the availability of these options is a testament to the rapid progress being made in the field of retinal implants.
The cost of these procedures, while significant, is often justified by the life-changing benefits they provide. For many patients, the ability to regain even partial vision is worth the investment. Additionally, ongoing research and development in this field are likely to lead to further advancements and potentially lower costs in the future.
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