Background
The first recorded attempt to restore sight to the blind took place in 1968 when doctors G. S. Brindley and W. S. Lewin surgically implanted an electronic device in a 52-year-old patient. Unlike modern retinal implants, this device was not placed in the patient’s eye but directly on the optical lobe of the brain. By stimulating neurons in the brain, the doctors enabled the patient to perceive spots of light in half of his field of vision. Although this was a rudimentary breakthrough, it paved the way for future advancements in sight-restoring technology.
Over the years, significant progress has been made in miniaturizing electronics, leading to the development of retinal implants that can be placed directly onto the retina. A camera, often mounted on sunglasses, captures visual data from the surroundings and transmits signals to the retinal implant. This implant then stimulates photoreceptors in the eye, allowing completely blind individuals to regain partial sight, including the ability to detect shapes and light. As electrode technology continues to advance, enabling more precise stimulation of photoreceptors, these devices are expected to improve further, offering enhanced vision to users.
The Invention
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has recently granted a patent titled “Retinal Prosthesis and Method of Manufacturing a Retinal Prosthesis” (Application Number: US12/976,650). This invention introduces an improved design for an implantable retinal prosthesis, addressing challenges related to size, comfort, and placement.
The retinal prosthesis consists of an electrode array that is positioned in close proximity to the retina. Additionally, the device includes an electronics package and an inductive receiving coil, both of which are mounted next to each other on a strap surrounding the sclera. This unique configuration minimizes the height of the prosthesis above the sclera, reducing bulkiness and improving user comfort.
By refining the design of retinal implants, this invention enhances their functionality and usability. As electrode technology continues to evolve, future iterations of retinal prostheses are expected to offer even greater visual restoration, bringing renewed hope to individuals with blindness.
Advantages
This retinal prosthesis offers improved comfort by minimizing bulkiness, ensuring better signal transmission, and enhancing visual perception through precise photoreceptor stimulation. Its compact design makes it more user-friendly, while its adaptability allows for future upgrades, increasing accessibility for individuals with blindness.
Author: Antas Deep, Legal Intern at PA Legal.
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