May 5, 2023 - Eye Health
A bionic eye is a type of medical device that restores vision to people who are blind or have severely impaired vision. The device uses an array of electrodes to stimulate the remaining healthy cells in the eye, sending signals to the brain to create a visual perception.
There are currently several types of bionic eye devices in development and clinical trials, each with its approach to restoring vision. Some devices are implanted directly into the eye, while others are worn externally and transmit signals to an implanted device.
While bionic eyes are still in the early stages of development, they have shown promising results in restoring vision in some patients. However, the technology is still relatively new. There are still many obstacles, including improving the resolution and sensitivity of the devices, minimizing the risk of infection and rejection, and developing better ways to integrate the devices with the brain.
Overall, while bionic eyes hold great promise for restoring vision in people with visual impairments, it is essential to remember that they are still in the early stages of development. More research is needed before they can become widely available to the public.
There is ongoing research and development in the field of bionic eyes. While the technology is still in the early stages of development, there have been some promising results in restoring vision to people with visual impairments.
One of the most advanced bionic eye devices is the Argus II Retinal Prosthesis System, used in several countries, including the United States and Europe. The Argus II system consists of a small camera mounted on a pair of glasses, which captures images and sends them to an implant in the eye. The implant contains an array of electrodes that stimulate the remaining healthy cells in the retina, allowing patients to perceive light and dark patterns and, in some cases, distinguish between simple shapes and objects.
Clinical trials of the Argus II system have shown that it can improve visual function and quality of life in patients with severe visual impairment. For example, a study published in the journal Ophthalmology in 2012 found that after six months of using the Argus II system, patients could detect high-contrast objects, identify letters, and recognize faces.
Other developments in bionic eye devices include optogenetics to stimulate the remaining healthy cells in the retina and devices implanted directly into the brain’s visual cortex.
How much do bionic eye devices cost patients?
The cost of bionic eye devices can vary depending on the specific device and location. Currently, bionic eye devices are still in the early stages of development, and only a few devices have received regulatory approval for use in some countries. The cost of the devices is still relatively high.
For example, the Argus II Retinal Prosthesis System, one of the most advanced bionic eye devices available, costs around USD 150,000 for the implant and related equipment. However, it is essential to note that health insurance or other government programs may partially or fully cover this cost, depending on the country and the patient’s specific circumstances.
It is also worth noting that bionic eye devices may require ongoing maintenance and support, which can add to the overall cost. Patients may need to undergo additional surgeries or receive training on using the device effectively, which can also increase the price.
Some of the eye diseases that improve bionic eye devices include:
1. Retinitis Pigmentosa: This is a genetic disorder that causes progressive damage to the photoreceptor cells in the retina, leading to severe vision loss and, eventually, blindness. Bionic eye devices can help by stimulating the remaining healthy cells in the retina to create a visual perception.
2. Age-Related Macular Degeneration: This is a common eye disease that affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. Bionic eye devices can restore some vision by bypassing the damaged area of the retina and stimulating the remaining healthy cells.
3. Diabetic Retinopathy: This is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss. Bionic eye devices may help by stimulating the remaining healthy cells in the retina.
4. Retinal Detachment: This medical emergency occurs when the retina detaches from the underlying tissue. Bionic eye devices may help by stimulating the remaining healthy cells in the retina.
It is important to note that the effectiveness of bionic eye devices can vary depending on the specific disease and the severity of the vision loss. Patients with these conditions should consult their doctors to determine if a bionic eye device may be an appropriate treatment option.
Link: Bionic eye
https://www.cnet.com/science/biology/features/a-bionic-eye-that-could-restore-vision-and-put-humans-in-the-matrix/