Towards a completely implantable, light-sensitive intraocular retinal prosthesis

Abstract

A completely implantable, light-sensitive retinal prosthesis must include the capability for both phototransduction and stimulus current generation, two power intensive functions. These devices will be implanted in the eye, creating a significant source of heat that must be dissipated by the ocular tissue without damaging the retina. However, significant technological hurdles remain. The amount of heat that can be safely dissipated by the eye and surrounding head without harming the retina, depends significantly on the position of the heater. Technology for, a high-density electrode array is advancing, but high-quality wires of biocompatible material in dimensions usable for a retinal prosthesis material have yet to be achieved.