- The revolutionary PRIMA retinal implant Science Corporation received official CE certification in Europe.
- The device restores functional central vision in patients with geographic atrophy, without requiring an external battery.
- The technology combines a subcutaneously placed photovoltaic chip with special augmented reality (AR) glasses.
The green light for its release in Europe was given PRIMA, a groundbreaking retinal implant from the Science CorporationIn our own testing of similar cutting-edge technologies, we rarely encounter devices that go from theory to clinical practice with such a direct impact for the end user.
The device has secured CE certification, paving the way for its availability to people who have lost their central vision due to geographic atrophy. Germany is the first market to welcome the technology, while we at TechNoid are closely monitoring when the road will open for the rest of European countries.
How does the "artificial eye" work?
The PRIMA system combines medical biotechnology and hardware in a particularly intelligent way. It consists of two basic pieces that work together seamlessly in practice.
The process is instantaneous: The built-in camera in the augmented reality (AR) glasses records the field of view and sends the data to the tiny photovoltaic chip under the retina via near infrared light (NIR)Because the human eye does not perceive infrared light, any natural peripheral vision the patient has remains completely intact.
The chip then converts the light into electrical pulses, stimulating the remaining retinal cells. From there, the signal is transmitted to the brain and the image is reconstructed with extreme precision.
No batteries, no chargers
The most impressive technical element in PRIMA's hardware is the absence of a built-in battery. The device behaves exactly like a tiny photovoltaic panel that draws power directly from the light beam of the glasses.
Compared to older medical implants that required bulky external processors and wiring, the risk of damage or the need for repeat power supply replacement surgeries is completely eliminated.
A breath of fresh air for millions of people
This technology aims to geographic atrophy, the advanced form of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The condition gradually destroys the light-sensitive cells responsible for sharp central vision.
It is estimated that over 8 million people worldwide live with this form of atrophy, having had little to no options until now. With approval in Europe now a fact, Science Corporation is moving forward with the FDA for the purchase of USA.
Our opinion at TechNoid
PRIMA does not promise miracles of restoring full, normal vision, and that is something we need to be clear about. However, for a person who can no longer read, work, or recognize the faces of loved ones due to geographic atrophy, the return of functional central vision is an unprecedented victory for technology.
What impresses us most at TechNoid is the absence of a battery. The ability of a subcutaneous device to pump energy blocked by light signals without external cables proves that biotechnology has reached another level of maturity, ready to radically change the daily lives of millions of patients worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions about the PRIMA Retinal Implant
Does PRIMA restore normal vision?
No, it is not about restoring full natural vision, but it restores functional central vision, allowing reading and recognizing faces.
Does the device need charging or battery replacement?
Not at all. The implant works like a photovoltaic panel, drawing energy directly from the light beam of the special AR glasses.
Who is the system mainly aimed at?
It is aimed at patients suffering from geographic atrophy, the advanced form of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Where is the technology available right now?
After securing CE certification, Germany is the first European country to welcome the system, followed by the USA.
