American company "Science Corporation" has announced that it has received official approval to market "Prima," a bionic eye implant capable of partially restoring human vision, in the European Union. This step marked an important milestone in the widespread adoption of retinal restoration technology.

What does the "Prima" system entail?

This device is primarily intended for treating the late stages of age-related macular degeneration (diseases of the retina). These conditions are among the main causes of central vision loss in humans.

The working principle of the device consists of the following:

  • A special wireless chip is surgically implanted under the retina of the eye.

  • Special glasses equipped with a video camera transmit images to the chip via near-infrared light.

  • The chip converts these signals into electrical impulses, which are interpreted by the brain as visual information.

Trial Results and Future Plans

The initial clinical trial results published by the company at the end of 2024 showed that patients using the "Prima" system were able to recognize faces and even read books.

Although the technology is currently still in its early stages, future plans include bringing its quality closer to natural human vision, including full color reproduction and high precision. The device is expected to cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, prompting the company to negotiate with insurance systems to cover a portion of the expenses. The first patients to receive treatment with these devices are expected to be residents of Germany, where the primary trials were conducted.