Improved retinal implants offers new retinitis pigmentosa potential

Researchers have developed a new form of retinal implant that could provide a superior means of treating retinitis pigmentosa.

Created by the University of Southern California's Eye Institute and Viterbi School of Engineering, these implants are capable of delivering longer pulses of electrical current to noticeably improve image sharpness for those that have lost their sight to the disease.

The system includes a video camera mounted on a pair of eyeglasses, a video processing unit to convert images into wirelessly transmitted electronic signals, and an implanted array of electrodes to stimulate visual neurons.

Longer pulse durations, when tested in an animal model, allowed the retina to be stimulated more precisely.

Dr James Weiland, professor of ophthalmology and biomedical engineering, said: "Our findings further support that it is possible for patients with retinitis pigmentosa to see forms using artificial vision. This makes a strong case for developing high-resolution retinal implants."

Retinitis pigmentosa is a hereditary eye condition that causes blindness through gradual degeneration of photoreceptors. It affects about one in 4,000 people worldwide.