Institute for Ophthalmic Research

What degree of vision can be achieved by the chip?

With these studies we are breaking new ground. Hence, the advantages the chip may offer to the individual participant are difficult to assess.
The most outstanding result achieved here in Tübingen has enabled a patient to recognize letters and combine them to words. The patient was also able to name unknown objects. 

Preliminary results of this pilot study

Triggering electric stimulation enabled patients to perceive light in particular shapes and patterns. Visual perception due to the chip itself enabled them to recognize and localize letters, unknown objects, and light sources (window, lamp), which is important for autonomous orientation. In some cases, bright objects (e.g. plates) set against a dark background were perceived and localized.

Despite the strain of operation and often long lasting test procedures, all patients valued their participation in the study as a positive and exciting experience. At the end of the study, all of them declared that they would renew their decision to participate in the study anytime.

Preparations for the upcoming main study, planned as a multicenter trial, are under way.

Participation in a study does not prohibit a future implantation of advanced chip technology at a later point in time. Functional testing prior to and after implantation as well as all surgical procedures take place at the Centre for Ophthalmology, Tuebingen, Germany.