Researchers at the Boston Retinal Implant Program have successfully developed a prototype for a retina replacement device. The bionic device is the size of a pencil eraser. The device, which is implanted behind the retina at the back of the eyeball, works as a light transmitter. Only patients who were once able to see and have partially intact optic nerve cells are eligible for the procedure. People who are blind from birth or suffer from glaucoma are not.
The implant will not restore perfect vision, but will provide patients with a sense of their surroundings - to detect shapes and obstacles in their pathways. The team hopes to enhance the device such that patients will someday be able to recognize objects, faces and general detail.
Bionic Eye
Retina Replacement Prototype
Trend Themes
1. Retina Replacement - Developing retinal replacement devices presents an opportunity for disruptive innovation in the field of vision restoration.
2. Bionic Devices - Advancements in bionic devices offer disruptive innovation potential to improve the quality of life for individuals with visual impairments.
3. Enhanced Vision - Improving the capabilities of retina replacement devices can lead to disruptive innovations in enabling individuals to recognize objects, faces, and details.
Industry Implications
1. Medical Devices - The medical devices industry can explore disruptive innovation opportunities by further developing and commercializing retina replacement technologies.
2. Assistive Technology - The assistive technology industry can embrace disruptive innovation by leveraging bionic devices to enhance the lives of individuals with visual impairments.
3. Biotechnology - The biotechnology industry can drive disruptive innovation by advancing the capabilities of retina replacement devices and enhancing human sight.