Our sense of vision enables us like no other to independently and freely do what we want. It is very difficult for most people to lose it: They must completely adjust themselves to learn how to compensate the loss through hearing, touching and auxiliary means. But today, we are already able to treat many diseases that threaten our vision. Research of how to treat other diseases is merely just beginning. Therefore, we take a look into today’s and tomorrow’s ophthalmology in our Topic of the Month.
Light instead of darkness – Seeing with the Argus II Implant
Retinitis pigmentosa is a hereditary eye disorder, which can lead to night blindness, restriction of the peripheral visual field and ultimately to blindness. The University Hospital Aachen, Germany, implants the Argus II retinal prosthesis system made by the Second Sight Company. It allows people with retinitis pigmentosa to perceive light and improve orientation.