Evaluated for: Wet macular degeneration patients with moderate to severe vision loss
How it works: Retinal chips, also known as artificial retinas, are designed to replace lost photoreceptors (the light-sensing cells of the eye) and other retinal tissue damaged by abnormal vessel growth and scarring associated with wet macular degeneration. Though still in the very early stages of testing and development, these devices will likely offer hope for patients who with advanced macular degeneration who have lost all or most of their vision. Most devices involve the use of a small video camera mounted to a pair of glasses. The camera collects images and sends this video information to a computer chip which is implanted in the eye. In turn, the chip sends the information to the brain to be processed. Numerous retinal chip studies are underway worldwide. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal location for placement of the chip in the eye, as well as find a material design which is compatible with the normal eye tissue and that can be used long-term.
Most common side effects: Infection and retinal detachment may occur. Other side effects may vary from patient-to-patient depending on the eye’s ability to tolerate the implanted device.
A thoughtful evaluation must be performed by a physician before taking any medications, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, or herbs. The American Health Assistance Foundation does not endorse any of these medications, vitamins, or herbs. A qualified physician should make an informed decision based on each person's medical history and current prescriptions. The medication summaries provided do not include all of the information important for patient use and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. The prescribing physician should be consulted concerning any questions that you have.
The information provided in this section of our website was obtained from the National Institutes of Health (NIH)/National Eye institute (NEI), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the National Library of Medicine, and research scientists specializing in macular degeneration.
Reviewed on 2/14/2008